Supriya Sule flags Ajit Pawar crash in Parliament, calls for time-bound investigation

Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) MP Supriya Sule on March 27 raised the issue of the fatal plane crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the Lok Sabha, seeking a time-bound and transparent investigation into the incident.

Speaking during the session, Sule expressed concern over the lack of clarity surrounding the crash and urged the Centre to provide a definite timeline for the probe. She stressed that the findings must be made public to ensure accountability and restore confidence.

Ajit Pawar was among six people who died when a chartered aircraft crashed during landing in Baramati in January. The incident sent shockwaves across the political spectrum and triggered multiple demands for a thorough probe into the cause of the accident.

Raising the matter in Parliament, Sule highlighted the need for transparency, stating that the circumstances leading to the crash must be investigated in detail. She also pointed to concerns raised in recent weeks, including allegations of possible irregularities and calls for a deeper inquiry.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and other authorities had earlier initiated a probe into the crash, examining factors such as technical failure, weather conditions and operational issues. Preliminary reports had suggested poor visibility as a possible cause, though no final conclusion has been officially confirmed so far.

Sule’s intervention comes amid continuing developments in the case. In recent days, a Zero FIR was also registered following allegations of a possible conspiracy linked to the crash, adding a new dimension to the investigation.

The NCP leader emphasised that the incident was not just a personal loss but a matter of public concern, given Pawar’s stature and the nature of the crash. She urged the government to ensure that all aspects of the case are examined thoroughly and without delay.

The crash, which occurred as the aircraft attempted to land, resulted in the deaths of all passengers on board, including pilots and security personnel. The tragedy had prompted widespread mourning and raised serious questions about aviation safety, particularly for chartered and VVIP flights.

Responding to the concerns, the government is expected to continue monitoring the investigation, though no specific timeline for the final report has been officially announced yet.

Sule reiterated in the House that a time-bound probe is essential to establish the truth, ensure accountability, and prevent similar incidents in the future.