NCP MLA Rohit Pawar Demands Independent Probe into Ajit Pawar's Fatal Plane Crash
In a significant development, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar has formally written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging a "comprehensive and independent" investigation into the tragic plane crash on January 28 that claimed the life of his uncle and former deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar. The move underscores growing concerns within political circles about the transparency of the ongoing probe.
Seeking Appointments with Key Officials
Rohit Pawar shared the letter, dated February 12, on his social media platform X, revealing that he has also sought appointments with Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu and senior officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). In his post, he expressed frustration, stating, "The home minister and civil aviation minister might be busy due to the ongoing Parliament session, due to which I might not get the appointment. I, however, fail to understand why DGCA officials did not give an appointment." This highlights potential bureaucratic hurdles in addressing the matter promptly.
Detailed Presentation and Specific Demands
Earlier, Rohit Pawar conducted a detailed presentation in Mumbai, outlining numerous concerns about the crash and posing critical questions for investigating agencies and the government. Building on this, his letter to Amit Shah lists 12 specific points demanding clarity and accountability. Key aspects include:
- A transparent and time-bound investigation into the Learjet-45 crash, with a proposed completion within one month.
- Examination of discrepancies in official records, such as ATC transcripts, central reports, flight radar data, and cockpit voice recordings.
- Scrutiny of landing-related decisions, including runway selection, visibility conditions, premature descent, and the decision not to divert.
Accountability and Monitoring Mechanisms
Rohit Pawar emphasized the necessity of fixing accountability wherever lapses are identified and initiating corrective and legal actions. To ensure transparency, he proposed the formation of a monitoring committee comprising members of Ajit Pawar's family, as well as MLAs and MPs from Maharashtra. This committee would oversee the investigation process, aiming to prevent any potential cover-ups or delays.
The incident has not only sparked political debates but also raised public safety concerns, with calls for stricter aviation protocols. As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await responses from the central government and DGCA to address these pressing issues.
