NEW DELHI: Opposition leaders across party lines have united in demanding a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four other individuals on Wednesday. The calls for scrutiny range from a Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-led technical probe to a Supreme Court-monitored judicial inquiry, reflecting deep concerns over the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Details of the Tragic Crash
Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was among five people killed when a Learjet 46 aircraft operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures crash-landed near Baramati airport in Pune district during the morning hours. The DGCA confirmed that all five individuals on board, including crew members, perished in the accident. The crash has sent shockwaves through political circles and raised urgent questions about aviation safety protocols.
Congress Leaders Voice Demands for Answers
Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh extended his condolences while emphasizing the need for a meticulous investigation. He highlighted several critical questions that require answers, including visibility conditions at the time of landing, adherence to standard landing protocols, and the maintenance history of the aircraft.
"The fundamental question is why this accident occurred," Singh stated. "Based on preliminary information, a similar incident involving the same company happened in Mumbai three years ago. This crash occurred in low visibility conditions. Standard procedure dictates that landing should not be attempted unless visibility is at least five kilometres."
Singh further revealed that the aircraft reportedly attempted to land twice before missing the airstrip. "The DGCA must conduct a thorough investigation. It is essential to examine who was responsible for the aircraft's maintenance and whether proper DGCA clearances had been obtained," he insisted.
Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, also called for a probe, describing Pawar's death as untimely and deeply shocking. "We will demand an investigation into this accident. It is an extremely sad incident. Ajit Pawar died a premature death. The passing of such a hard-working man has shocked us all. We stand with his family in this difficult hour," Kharge expressed.
Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Kharge noted that Pawar had dedicated his life to public service, and his demise has caused widespread grief. "This loss has hurt everyone, including his family members, and we share their sorrow while praying they find strength to bear this immense loss," he added.
Mamata Banerjee Calls for Supreme Court Intervention
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee escalated the demands by calling for a Supreme Court-supervised inquiry, expressing distrust in existing investigative agencies. "We trust only the Supreme Court. All other agencies have been completely compromised," Banerjee told reporters before departing for Singur, asserting that only a court-monitored probe would uncover the truth.
She further hinted at a possible political conspiracy, citing reports that Pawar was considering leaving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) days before the crash. "Two days ago, I learned that someone from another party had stated Pawar was willing to leave the BJP, and now this tragedy has occurred. He was reportedly preparing to return to the Nationalist Congress Party faction led by his uncle Sharad Pawar," she revealed.
Banerjee extended her condolences, saying, "It is truly a great loss. My heartfelt sympathies to his family, the people of Maharashtra, and to Sharad Pawar."
BJD Joins Opposition Chorus for Investigation
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) joined other opposition parties in demanding a thorough investigation. BJD Vice President Debi Prasad Mishra expressed shock over the incident, stating, "It is shocking news that Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a prominent regional leader, died in a plane crash at Baramati. He was a vibrant leader with a strong reputation as a doer, held important portfolios in Maharashtra, and worked extensively for the people. He was also the cousin of the legendary leader Sharad Pawar. This is very unfortunate, and the matter should be thoroughly investigated."
The collective opposition demand underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for clarity regarding the factors that led to this devastating aviation disaster. As investigations commence, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing such tragedies in the future.
