Ajit Pawar Plane Tragedy: Maharashtra Moves Centre for CBI Investigation

Mumbai/Pune/New Delhi, 23rd February 20: The Maharashtra government has formally requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah to initiate a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into last month’s plane crash that killed Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that a written appeal has been sent to the Centre, urging that the investigation be handed over to the CBI to ensure a thorough and independent inquiry. “We want a complete and impartial investigation into this tragic incident,” Fadnavis said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency amid widespread public and political concern.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, a key leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), died on January 28 when a chartered Learjet 45 crashed near Baramati in Pune district. The aircraft reportedly went down while attempting to land in dense fog, claiming the lives of all five people on board.

In the aftermath, questions arose from Pawar’s family and party members regarding whether the crash was purely accidental. While authorities have not indicated any foul play, the high-profile nature of the tragedy has intensified calls for a probe by a central investigative agency.

At present, multiple investigations are underway. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the state CID, and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are examining the crash. Officials have recovered flight data and cockpit voice recorders, though sources say the extreme heat from the crash site may have damaged the devices, potentially complicating data retrieval.

Fadnavis said the state government is determined to ensure a “thorough and impartial” investigation. By requesting a CBI probe, authorities hope to address public concerns and reduce speculation. The Centre has yet to decide whether the CBI will take over the case, while aviation safety authorities continue their inquiry, with a preliminary report expected shortly.

The death of Ajit Pawar has created a significant political vacuum in Maharashtra, and the findings of the investigations are expected to have important legal and political implications in the coming weeks.