New CCTV Footage Emerges in Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Investigation
A new and disturbing CCTV video of the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar has surfaced, providing chilling visual evidence of the final moments before impact. The footage, released by NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar during a press conference on Tuesday, shows the chartered Learjet 45 hitting the ground at high speed amid dense fog conditions at Baramati Airport.
Fresh Details Emerge from Disturbing Footage
The newly released video captures the aircraft stalling just before crashing, with a fireball erupting immediately after impact. This visual evidence adds crucial details to an incident that has deeply shaken Maharashtra's political landscape and raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
"This is the basic design of the aircraft. Ajit Dada would have been seated near the third window on the left side," explained Rohit Pawar during his emotional presentation. "There are messages in a group chat from the morning discussing visibility and flight arrangements. The captain received confirmation that visibility was 'OK' despite DGCA norms requiring at least 5,000 meters for takeoff."
Serious Allegations of Safety Lapses
During the press conference, Rohit Pawar presented detailed slides alleging multiple safety violations by VSR Ventures, the charter company that owned the aircraft, and Arrow Company, which contracted the flight. The allegations include:
- Violation of maintenance schedules
- Breach of pilot duty norms
- Failure to adhere to safety regulations
- Previous crashes involving VSR aircraft
"The investigating agency should examine maintenance records," Pawar emphasized. "Why was this company allowed to operate despite prior crashes and violations? The CID handling the case lacks technical expertise for aviation investigation."
Questions About Decision Making and Visibility
Rohit Pawar raised critical questions about the decision-making process during the ill-fated flight. He questioned why the pilots attempted to land at Baramati Airport rather than diverting to the backup airport at Pune, especially given the dense fog conditions.
According to Pawar's investigation, the aircraft had no technical permission for a 'go-around' maneuver and was scheduled for additional flights that same day, raising concerns about whether the pilots were operating under pressure to maintain the schedule.
Emotional Toll and Demand for Independent Probe
"I lost my uncle Ajit Dada Pawar in this crash. He was a political elder and a great leader for Maharashtra," said Rohit Pawar, describing the personal impact of the tragedy. "Over the past 13 days, I have compiled information through various sources. This is a very personal matter for me."
The MLA has demanded that a foreign accident investigation agency from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, or France be involved to ensure an independent and technically competent probe. He has shared his complete presentation on social media platforms, urging authorities to address all doubts surrounding the crash.
Official Response and Investigation Status
Responding to the allegations, Capt VK Singh, owner of VSR Aviation, stated: "It was a very unfortunate accident. Visibility was low, and the pilots could have diverted. The aircraft was airworthy."
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have already launched their own investigations into the crash that killed five people, including Ajit Pawar, the co-pilot, pilot, flight attendant, and a security officer. The case was initially registered as accidental death by Pune rural police before being transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
"The questions raised are not rhetorical," concluded Rohit Pawar. "Maharashtra has lost a leader, and until all doubts are clarified, we will continue to pursue this matter. We expect support from the state and central investigative agencies."
