Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Investigation Update: Report by Feb 28, Opposition Boycotts High Tea, Rohit Pawar Demands Independent Probe and Minister’s Resignation
The preliminary investigation report into the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is expected to be released by February 28, according to Minister of State for Civil Aviation Muralidhar Mohol. The announcement comes amid mounting political controversy, with Opposition parties questioning the Maharashtra government’s clarity and transparency regarding the incident.
Ajit Pawar lost his life in a plane crash on January 28 at Baramati Airport. The accident also claimed the lives of three other individuals on board, sending shockwaves across Maharashtra’s political landscape. The sudden demise of a senior leader triggered widespread grief, but it also sparked allegations, counter-allegations, and demands for a deeper probe into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Speaking to reporters, Mohol stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has already issued a press note and assured that the findings of the investigation would be made public. He refrained from commenting on political statements but emphasized that the report would be presented transparently.
However, the Opposition has intensified its criticism of the state government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) and other parties have questioned what they describe as an “unclear stance” by the government regarding the circumstances of Pawar’s death.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav publicly expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the government had failed to offer a clear and convincing explanation about the crash. He also criticized the ruling party for allegedly showing disrespect toward the Opposition by sending delayed invitations to the traditional high-tea gathering held before the budget session. As a mark of protest, Opposition leaders boycotted the event.
The political tensions did not stop there. Jadhav also raised concerns about the India-US trade agreement, arguing that it could adversely affect Maharashtra’s cotton farmers and fishermen. According to him, the state government did not adequately oppose the central government’s stance on the agreement.
Meanwhile, fresh controversy erupted after Rohit Pawar, nephew of Ajit Pawar and MLA from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), addressed a press conference in Delhi. He alleged that the crash might have involved more than a routine accident and suggested the possibility of a conspiracy.
During his media interaction, Rohit Pawar presented photographs and technical data, raising doubts about the aircraft’s black box and the nature of the explosions reported at the crash site. He claimed that there were multiple explosions rather than a single impact and alleged that extra petrol cans stored in the luggage compartment may have intensified the fire.
He demanded a thorough and independent investigation, questioning the aircraft owner company and the technical oversight mechanisms. In a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rohit Pawar called for the resignation of Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu pending completion of an impartial probe.
Rohit Pawar also requested an independent investigation into alleged links between the VSR company and Naidu’s political affiliations. He even suggested that international agencies could be involved if necessary to ensure transparency and credibility.
Adding to the emotional dimension of the case, Jay Pawar, son of Ajit Pawar, posted on social media questioning the maintenance standards of the aircraft operated by VSR Ventures. He argued that black boxes are designed to withstand severe crashes and expressed concern over the lack of clear information. He demanded that the aircraft fleet be grounded until a complete investigation is conducted.
The aircraft involved in the crash was a Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Ventures Private Limited, a New Delhi-based non-scheduled air operator providing private charter and air ambulance services. The Learjet 45XR, introduced in the 1990s, belongs to the super-light business jet category known for corporate travel efficiency and speed.
On January 28, the aircraft reportedly crashed shortly after takeoff from Baramati, resulting in the deaths of five individuals, including Ajit Pawar. The tragedy prompted his wife Sunetra Pawar to meet Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and demand a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the matter.
Political analysts note that the crash has evolved from a tragic accident into a flashpoint of political confrontation. The Opposition accuses the government of opacity, while the ruling establishment maintains that the aviation regulator is conducting due process.
The DGCA’s forthcoming preliminary report is expected to address technical aspects such as weather conditions, pilot communication, aircraft maintenance logs, fuel records, and black box data. However, preliminary findings may not offer definitive conclusions, as comprehensive aviation accident investigations often take months to finalize.
The controversy also raises broader questions about aviation safety oversight in India’s growing private charter sector. As corporate aviation expands, regulatory compliance, maintenance audits, and operational transparency become increasingly critical.
For the Pawar family and supporters, the demand is clear: a transparent, impartial, and scientifically rigorous investigation. For the Maharashtra government, the challenge lies in balancing administrative procedure with political sensitivity.
As February 28 approaches, the preliminary report is likely to shape the next phase of discourse. Whether it calms speculation or intensifies demands for a deeper probe remains to be seen. What is certain is that the tragic loss of Ajit Pawar continues to reverberate across Maharashtra’s political and public spheres.
