Mumbai – Calls for accountability are intensifying following the January 28 plane crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others. Rohit Pawar, NCP (SP) MLA and nephew of the late Pawar, has formally requested the resignation of Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu pending a thorough investigation into the incident. The demand comes amid growing scrutiny of the air charter company involved and potential links to the minister’s party.
In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, Rohit Pawar cited “serious questions” surrounding VSR, the company that owned the Learjet 45 aircraft, and its alleged connections to Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP). He urged for an independent probe, potentially involving international agencies, to determine if the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was compromised in any way regarding VSR’s operations. The request underscores a deepening sense of unease surrounding the circumstances of the crash near Baramati airport in Pune district.
“You have always shown respect for Ajit Dada and his contribution to the country,” Pawar wrote in his letter, a copy of which was also sent to Home Minister Amit Shah. “I request that Rammohan Naidu be asked to resign from his post until the investigation is completed. This is necessary to ensure there is no influence or interference in examining whether the DGCA was compromised in any manner in relation to VSR.”
Addressing a press conference, Pawar elaborated on his concerns, suggesting the possibility of both political and commercial conspiracies surrounding the crash. He stated that powerful individuals, including DGCA officials, may be connected to VSR, necessitating the direct involvement of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah to ensure a just outcome. He plans to formally submit his letter to the Prime Minister via email today, reiterating his demand for Naidu’s resignation.
Concerns Raised Over Aircraft Maintenance and Potential Sabotage
Pawar also raised doubts about the technical aspects of the crash, specifically questioning the integrity of the aircraft’s black box and the cause of the fire that erupted upon impact. He alleged that multiple explosions occurred during the crash and that VSR had a history of mechanical and maintenance issues. “There is an area where bags are kept, additional petrol cans were kept there, and that’s what caused the fire, so this needs to be investigated,” Pawar said, suggesting potential negligence or foul play.
The Nationalist Congress Party (SP), along with the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, have previously voiced concerns about the incident and suggested the possibility of sabotage. The crash occurred while the aircraft was attempting to land at Baramati airport, a location with personal significance to the Pawar family.
Minister Under Pressure as Investigation Continues
The call for K Ram Mohan Naidu’s resignation adds significant political pressure as authorities continue to investigate the crash. According to the Economic Times, Rohit Pawar’s letter directly links the minister to the company at the center of the scrutiny. NDTV reports that Pawar is demanding a full and independent investigation into the matter.
The allegations against VSR and the potential involvement of individuals connected to the ruling party raise serious questions about transparency and accountability in the aviation sector. The New Indian Express highlights Pawar’s assertion that the investigation must be free from any external influence.
The demand for Naidu’s resignation, if accepted, would be a significant development in the ongoing investigation. News18 reports that Pawar believes only the highest levels of government can ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry.
What Comes Next
As the investigation progresses, the focus will likely remain on scrutinizing VSR’s operations, its connections to political figures, and the technical aspects of the crash. The Prime Minister’s response to Rohit Pawar’s letter, and whether he will consider the request for the Aviation Minister’s resignation, will be a key indicator of the government’s commitment to a transparent and impartial investigation. The findings of the probe will be crucial in determining the cause of the crash and ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing.
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