Ajit Pawar plane crash raises fresh questions, Rohit Pawar seeks CID probe and SIT investigation

Mumbai: Nearly a month after the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, serious questions continue to linger over the circumstances surrounding the incident.

With uncertainty over whether it was an accident or something more sinister, demands for a comprehensive probe have intensified. NCP MLA Rohit Pawar has taken an aggressive stand, insisting on a detailed and transparent investigation into the crash.

He has filed a petition in the Mumbai High Court seeking the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. Pawar claimed that shocking evidence related to the crash has surfaced and announced that he would reveal key details during a press conference scheduled for March 2.

The aircraft crash occurred on January 28 near Baramati, triggering widespread shock across Maharashtra and the political fraternity. Since then, multiple questions have emerged regarding aviation safety procedures, regulatory approvals, and the technical condition of the aircraft involved.

Meanwhile, attention is focused on the preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is expected to shed light on the possible causes of the crash.

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol had earlier indicated that the initial findings would likely be released on February 28. Rohit Pawar expressed hope that the report would clarify crucial aspects of the incident but maintained that further investigation was necessary.

Speaking to reporters at the Maharashtra legislature complex, Rohit Pawar raised several critical questions. He asked how the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) granted approval to the aviation operator and whether the aircraft’s black box had been safely recovered and examined.

He also demanded clarity on the aircraft’s movement from Mumbai’s Kalina airport to the Baramati runway. Rohit Pawar has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis urging an independent and credible probe. While the state government has reportedly considered a CBI investigation, Pawar argued that a CID probe would ensure quicker and more focused accountability.

The incident has sparked political debate, with opposition leaders and aviation experts stressing the need for transparency and accountability. Families of those affected and political observers are now awaiting the AAIB report and further disclosures, which could determine whether the crash was purely accidental or involved other factors.

Also Read: Bengaluru karaga festival dates announced, preparations begin at Dharmarayaswamy temple