Rohit Pawar Raises Concerns Over Ajit Pawar’s Air Crash Investigation
In a press conference held on February 10, 2026, NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar voiced doubts about the tragic air crash that claimed the life of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on January 28, 2026. The incident has led to a flurry of speculation and questions regarding the true circumstances surrounding the crash.
Addressing reporters, Rohit Pawar urged that a thorough investigation be conducted by international authorities, suggesting that bodies like the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) be involved alongside government agencies to ensure a fair inquiry.
“I firmly believe this is not an accident, but a conspiracy,” he stated, expressing skepticism about the official narrative that termed the event a mere accident. The investigation’s integrity was called into question by Rohit, particularly concerning the disappearance of key flight data.
Background of the Crash and Initial Reactions
Ajit Pawar, a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, was known for his influence and leadership within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). His sudden demise in the air crash, which also took the lives of five others, shocked the political landscape. While many leaders have expressed condolences, a significant number have raised inquiries about the crash’s authenticity.
On the day of the crash, Ajit Pawar’s uncle, Sharad Pawar, dismissed any allegations of foul play, labeling the event as an unfortunate accident. However, this view has not deterred various political leaders, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and NCP legislators, from seeking deeper scrutiny.
Rohit Pawar’s Key Concerns and Claims
Disappearing Transponder Data
During the press conference, Rohit Pawar raised concerns about the lack of transponder data during the last minute of the flight, questioning why it was shut down just before landing at 8:43 AM. “What happened in the last minute when the flight was aligned to the runway?” he asked, indicating that such anomalies warrant further investigation.
Pilot Changes Before the Flight
Rohit Pawar also highlighted the last-minute change of pilots as a suspicious element. He mentioned that two pilots, Sahil Madan and Yash, were swapped out shortly before takeoff, and raised questions regarding the behavior of the pilot who returned from Hong Kong—“Was he drunk when he boarded the flight?” he inquired, suggesting that these changes could have jeopardized flight safety.
Questionable Aircraft Conditions
Another significant point raised was the potential presence of excess fuel tanks on the aircraft. According to Rohit, if the plane did carry illegal extra fuel, it could be interpreted as a bomb, given the risks. “CCTV footage should be scanned to see if they did,” he insisted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigation of all flight operations.
“It is dangerous that the CM and the other DCM are still traveling with VSR,” he remarked, warning about the implications of continued safety concerns surrounding the airline involved.
Changes in Travel Plans and Safety Measures
Rohit Pawar mentioned that Ajit Pawar was known to be cautious regarding air travel. The original itinerary had planned for him to fly on the evening of January 27, but schedules changed unexpectedly. He pointed out that Ajit had been late in departing, complicating the circumstances of the fateful flight.
“Dada was very cautious about flying. He never took a risk,” Rohit emphasized, underscoring Ajit Pawar’s usual carefulness when it came to travel arrangements.
Concerns Over Investigation Integrity
In his remarks, Rohit Pawar expressed concerns that the ongoing investigation might not be transparent. He questioned the availability of CCTV footage from the hangar and noted that a thorough examination was crucial to avoid manipulation of evidence. “Where is the tech log of the craft? Who had done the routine check-up?” he pressed, demanding accountability from the investigators.
Rohit mentioned that past incidents, like the Learjet crash in 2023, have also raised suspicions—“The report isn’t yet out. We believe that VSR has a hold on DGCA, and that report was suppressed.” This statement reflects his frustration regarding the lack of thorough, unbiased investigations into aviation incidents connected to his family.
Eyewitness Accounts and Technical Questions
He further recounted an eyewitness report of a woman who claimed she heard unusual sounds emanating from the plane before it crashed. Such observations heighten the urgency for examining the flight’s mechanical conditions and inspecting aircraft maintenance logs.
“The investigators need to speak with those who must have done all the inspections and written all the reports,” Rohit implored, highlighting the critical need for a multi-faceted investigation approach.
Public Sentiment and Future Implications
The crash has stirred a strong public sentiment, especially within the Pawar family and their supporters who remain unconvinced that the incident was purely accidental. “Everyone has this question in their mind—was it an accident or something else?” Rohit Pawar declared. He mentioned the emotional weight of wishing for a different outcome, recalling how six persons were on board, with Ajit being viewed as the returning figure.
Rohit summed up the ongoing suspicion by referring to a watch that was recovered, which read ahead of the actual time. This small detail has led to further questions about time management and operational safety during the flight.
Potential Political Ramifications
The political environment in Maharashtra is sensitive, particularly with the Pawar family’s prominence. As the dynamics shift in response to this tragedy, leaders from various political affiliations will likely assess the situation carefully. Depending on the outcomes of investigations, it may lead to significant repercussions for the airline and regulatory authorities.
With Rohit Pawar steering the charge in questioning the initial reports surrounding the crash, the coming days will likely see heightened scrutiny from both media and political oversight bodies eager to ensure accountability is upheld.
Conclusion
As investigations into the crash progress, the Pawar family remains vocal about their demands for transparency and thoroughness. The need for clarity on the events leading up to January 28 continues to resonate with the public and political leaders alike. The implications of this incident may prove critical not just for aviation safety but also for the stability of political alliances in Maharashtra.
In the fast-evolving situation, updates will unfold as authorities respond to the questions lodged by the Pawar family, and the broader political discourse on aviation safety gains momentum.