NCP Minister Bhujbal Raises Doubts Over Official Report on Ajit Pawar's Fatal Plane Crash
Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal has publicly expressed his surprise and skepticism regarding the preliminary findings released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) concerning the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and others earlier this year.
Contradictory Evidence Emerges in Baramati Crash Investigation
The AAIB's initial report states that the Learjet 45 aircraft, operated by VSR Ventures, struck trees before crashing at the Baramati airstrip on January 28. However, Bhujbal has challenged this conclusion based on eyewitness accounts and available surveillance footage.
"Hundreds of people were waiting for Ajit Pawar at the Baramati airstrip, yet none of them reported that the plane hit any trees," Bhujbal told reporters while traveling from Nashik to Mumbai. "CCTV footage and eyewitnesses have clearly indicated that the aircraft tilted sideways moments before impact and crashed, killing everyone onboard."
Bhujbal Calls for DGCA Investigation into Pilot Seat Video
The controversy deepened when Bhujbal was questioned about a video shared by Ajit Pawar's son, Jay Pawar, which reportedly shows a person seated in the pilot's seat while the aircraft was airborne. This revelation has raised serious questions about cockpit discipline and operational protocols.
Bhujbal emphasized that "DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) must investigate this matter and take strict action." He added, "The individual occupying that seat must remain alert at all times and operate the aircraft with the highest level of responsibility."
Key Details of the Fatal Incident
- The Learjet 45 crashed while attempting to land at Baramati airstrip on January 28
- The aircraft was operated by VSR Ventures and carried former deputy CM Ajit Pawar
- All occupants onboard perished in the tragic accident
- The AAIB's preliminary report cites tree collision as a factor in the crash
- Bhujbal disputes this finding based on eyewitness and CCTV evidence
As the investigation continues, Bhujbal's statements have added a new dimension to the ongoing inquiry into one of Maharashtra's most significant aviation tragedies. The conflicting accounts between official reports and ground-level observations highlight the complexity of determining precise causes in aviation accidents.
The DGCA now faces increased pressure to conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the crash, including the cockpit video evidence that has surfaced through family sources. Aviation safety experts emphasize that such incidents require meticulous examination to prevent future tragedies and ensure accountability in India's aviation sector.
