Sharad Pawar mourns former minister Madan Bafna, recalls 60-year bond

The death of senior leader and former minister, advocate Madan Bafna, has sent a wave of grief through Maharashtra's political, social and public life. Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) chief Sharad Pawar expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Bafna, who had built a distinct identity through his work and connect with ordinary people over his long political career.

"I have lost my loyal companion and trusted colleague of 60 years," Sharad Pawar said, recalling old memories as he expressed grief over Bafna's death. Pawar's statement made clear that beyond politics, the two shared a bond of friendship and trust.

Madan Bafna always kept ordinary citizens at the centre of his public life. He worked continuously to understand people's problems at the grassroots level, help them benefit from government schemes, and get the public's issues resolved through the administration. He believed that politics was not merely a means to gain power but an effective medium for public service, and he charted his journey guided by this belief.

Madan Bafna had come to Pune to study engineering. It was during this time that he met Sharad Pawar. Over time, this acquaintance grew into a relationship of friendship and trust. The two went on to hold different responsibilities in politics, but mutual trust and affection between them always endured. Sharad Pawar said, "Madan Sheth stood firmly with all of us. He was with us for years. We saw many moments of public life together. He remained with us until his final days."

Madan Bafna's political identity was not confined to the posts he held. While holding several political responsibilities, including that of minister, he used his administrative experience for the public's concerns. He took special interest in the issues of rural citizens, farmers, students and ordinary families. Direct contact with grassroots workers was another key aspect of his working style. He always made an effort to be easily accessible to any worker or ordinary citizen and to hear them out. This is why deep grief is being seen among workers and his admirers over his death.

Despite holding major responsibilities in politics, Bafna retained his simplicity and humanity. For Sharad Pawar and many other colleagues, he was not just a political associate but a close friend and trusted companion. His long public life saw many political ups and downs, but Bafna remained committed to his beliefs and his role of public service.

Madan Bafna's death has left a big void in the political and social sphere of Pune district, including Maval. The memory of his contribution over a long public life and his relationship with ordinary people will remain for many years to come. "A loyal colleague, a trusted friend, and a companion who worked all his life for the people is no longer among us today," Sharad Pawar said, paying tribute to Bafna. Madan Bafna's death has brought an end to a long political era, but the imprint of his work will always remain in Maharashtra's public life.