Mumbai: Political tensions have escalated in Maharashtra over the crash of the chartered aircraft carrying the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Eleven days after the tragedy, the exact cause of the crash remains unclear. Meanwhile, NCP MLC Amol Mitkari has intensified the debate, calling the incident a possible conspiracy.
Mitkari Questions Pilot Conduct
Mitkari raised serious questions, asking: “Was the pilot hypnotized or bribed to carry out this act?” He claimed that the pilot did not make a “Mayday” call nor maintain contact with Pune Airport after takeoff. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation. Amid these developments, Ajit Pawar’s ashes were immersed in Prayagraj.
Why Was the Pilot Changed Twice?
On the morning of 28 February, Ajit Pawar’s Learjet-45 crashed while attempting to land in Baramati, killing the Deputy CM and four others on the spot. The aircraft carried pilot Sumit Kapoor, co-pilot, a flight attendant, and Ajit Pawar with his security detail.
Mitkari claimed that the company operating the aircraft was in poor condition and had long-standing restrictions. Despite this, the same plane was assigned to Ajit Pawar on 28 February. He further alleged that the pilot was changed twice before the flight.
Questions Raised About Private Secretary
Mitkari’s statements came amid suspicions raised by NCP MP Bajrang Sonawane, who questioned why Ajit Pawar’s private secretary was not on the plane. Sonawane urged the Chief Minister to order an inquiry into the matter.
The investigation into the crash is being jointly conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and Maharashtra Police CID. Reports indicate that Ajit Pawar’s private secretary was questioned for four hours. It was also revealed that Ajit Pawar had initially planned to travel to Baramati by road, with 99% of the journey scheduled via road. Questions remain about whose advice led him to switch to the aircraft at the last moment.
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