Bank Holiday Update: The Maharashtra government, led by Devendra Fadnavis, has announced a state holiday for Wednesday and three days of mourning after the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. During a press conference in Mumbai, Fadnavis stated that the arrangements for Pawar’s last rites will be made in consultation with his family. “We have declared a state holiday today, and there will also be three days of mourning. This is an irreplaceable loss for the entire state of Maharashtra,” he remarked.
Are Banks Closed Today?
In light of the government’s announcement, several offices, municipalities, and public sector units have closed to honor the tragedy. It’s worth mentioning that banks are not mandated to close during state mourning. However, local administrations typically advise checking branch notifications. Historically, around 70 percent of districts have halted public services during significant state mourning events, even though they remain operational.
Ajit Pawar’s Last Rites
Ajit Pawar, a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), tragically passed away at the age of 66 in a plane crash in Baramati on Wednesday. His last rites are scheduled for Thursday, January 29, at 11 am at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit, and other prominent political figures are expected to attend.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared three days of mourning in Maharashtra, with national flags across the state being flown at half-mast to pay tribute to its longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister.