Ajit Pawar’s Security Officer Vidip Jadhav Laid to Rest; Young Son Performs Last Rites

State Honours Accorded at Native Village in Satara

Satara, Maharashtra | January 29 | Undercover Editor

In a deeply emotional ceremony, Vidip Dilip Jadhav, the personal security officer of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, was laid to rest with full state honours in his native village in Satara district on Wednesday evening. Jadhav was among the five people who lost their lives in the tragic Baramati plane crash earlier in the day.

Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as Jadhav’s young son performed the last rites, surrounded by grieving family members, police colleagues, and local residents. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow as the final farewell was given to an officer remembered for his dedication and quiet service.

Tragic Crash Near Baramati Airport

The chartered aircraft carrying senior officials and security personnel crashed just 200 metres from the tabletop runway at Baramati airport, killing all those on board. The victims included senior pilots and security staff accompanying the political delegation.

Those who lost their lives in the crash were Captain Sumit Kapoor, an experienced pilot with over 15,000 flight hours, co-pilot Shambhavi Pathak, who had logged 1,500 hours, PSO Vidip Jadhav, and flight attendant Pinky Mali.

A special team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) reached the crash site on Wednesday evening to begin a detailed forensic investigation into the cause of the accident.

A Life Dedicated to Duty

Vidip Jadhav had served as Ajit Pawar’s personal security officer for the past four years. A member of the Mumbai Police since 2009, he was widely respected among colleagues for his discipline, professionalism, and calm demeanour under pressure.

Residents of his village described him as a devoted family man who balanced demanding official duties with deep care for his children’s future.

“He always spoke about his children’s education and safety. They were his world,” said a neighbour.

Family Left Behind

Jadhav is survived by his wife Sandya, a daughter, a young son, and his parents. His daughter is a Class 7 student, while his son studies at a government school in Thane. Family members were seen inconsolable as the final rites concluded.

State Honours and Police Tribute

The Maharashtra Police accorded full state honours during the cremation. Senior officers paid floral tributes, saluting Jadhav’s service and sacrifice. Many colleagues stood in silence, offering a final salute to an officer who lost his life in the line of duty.

As evening fell over Satara, Vidip Jadhav was remembered not just as a security officer, but as a protector, a father, and a dedicated public servant, whose life ended while serving the state.