Maharashtra Deputy CM's Son's Land Deal Faces Scrutiny
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced on Friday that a controversial land transaction involving his son Parth Pawar has been officially cancelled following allegations of procedural irregularities in the deal. The announcement comes amid growing political pressure and media scrutiny over the transaction.
In an official statement, Pawar maintained that neither he nor his office played any role in the matter, emphasizing that transparency and adherence to legal procedures remain his fundamental principles in public life.
Details of the Controversial Land Deal
The controversy centers around a proposed purchase of 40 acres of government land in Pune's Mundhwa area. According to reports, the land valued at approximately Rs 1,800 crore was allegedly being acquired for Rs 300 crore by Amadea Enterprises LLP, a company where Parth Pawar serves as director.
Pawar clarified that the transaction was merely an agreement to purchase land and no actual payment had been made by his son or the company involved. "There is no transaction in the related case as yet," he stated during his press address.
The deputy chief minister revealed that following preliminary investigations, the state government has already suspended a sub-registrar and registered an FIR against three individuals, including a company partner and a government official.
Political Reactions and Investigation
The land deal has triggered strong political reactions, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accusing the government of allowing "land theft" by selling Dalit-reserved land at throwaway prices to a minister's family member. Gandhi also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the issue.
In response to the allegations, Pawar stated that he has discussed the matter with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and requested a thorough probe. "I told him he can order a probe," Pawar told reporters, adding that he has never violated rules during his 35-year political career.
The state government has constituted a special committee to investigate the matter, with the panel expected to submit its report within one month. Pawar has urged anyone with relevant information or evidence to present it before the inquiry committee.
Key developments in the case:
- Land deal involving 40 acres in Pune's Mundhwa area cancelled
- Property valued at Rs 1,800 crore, proposed purchase at Rs 300 crore
- FIR registered against three individuals
- Government official suspended
- Inquiry committee formed with one-month deadline
Pawar emphasized that he has directed all officials under his jurisdiction not to succumb to any pressure, even if someone uses his name to influence decisions. "Who had put pressure on officers, who were involved, who had carried out the transaction, everything will be investigated," he assured.
The deputy chief minister concluded by reiterating that the Nationalist Congress Party and its members uphold "the highest standards of probity and accountability" in public life, and appropriate action will be taken if any wrongdoing is established during the investigation.
