Mamata Banerjee hints at foul play in Ajit Pawar’s death, Fadnavis hits back

Mamata Banerjee Flags ‘Serious Questions’ Over Reports on Ajit Pawar; Fadnavis Rejects Claims, Calls It Misinformation

✍️ Editor: Sudhir Choudhary
📅 January 29, 2026

Kolkata/Mumbai — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said there were “serious questions that must be answered” regarding viral reports claiming the death of Maharashtra leader Ajit Pawar, remarks that were swiftly rebutted by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who termed the narrative “false and irresponsible.”

It is important to note that no official confirmation of Ajit Pawar’s death exists. Party officials and government sources have stated that the reports circulating on social media are untrue. The exchange between the two leaders unfolded against the backdrop of widespread misinformation online.

Banerjee Raises Questions, Urges Transparency

Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Banerjee said the circulation of such reports about a senior political leader was “deeply disturbing” and called for clarity from authorities. While she did not cite evidence, she said that “when contradictory messages spread at scale, transparency becomes essential.” Her comments were framed as a response to the viral claims rather than a statement based on verified information.

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Banerjee did not announce any formal communication with the Maharashtra government, and her office did not issue a written statement elaborating on the remarks.

Fadnavis Dismisses Allegations, Emphasises Facts

Responding from Mumbai, Fadnavis said there was no basis to suggest foul play because the underlying premise itself was false. “There is no such incident. Ajit Pawar is alive. Spreading or endorsing rumours is harmful,” he told reporters, urging political leaders to rely on official confirmations before commenting.

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Fadnavis added that misinformation can create public anxiety and strain inter-state relations. He said the Maharashtra administration had not issued any advisory or statement beyond clarifying that the reports were incorrect.

Misinformation and Political Reactions

The episode highlights how unverified claims can trigger political responses across states. Officials in Maharashtra said there were no emergency arrangements, security advisories, or official communications that would accompany a high-profile incident. Leaders in West Bengal also acknowledged that no confirmation had been received through formal channels.

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Media analysts reiterated the need for restraint and verification, noting that viral messages often outpace official clarifications.

What Is Known and What Is Not

Confirmed: There is no official confirmation of Ajit Pawar’s death; party and government sources say the reports are false.
Confirmed: No investigation or official inquiry has been announced, as there is no incident to probe.
Not Released: Authorities have not disclosed the origin of the viral messages or whether any action will be taken against those spreading them.

Public officials across parties appealed to citizens to check information with credible sources and await formal statements before drawing conclusions.

Sources: