Union Minister Ramdas Athavale on Tuesday denied sabotage in the plane crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and four others last month, but demanded a thorough investigation and determination of accountability.
Athawale demanded a detailed investigation and action against the responsible officials. (PTI)The NCP (SP) MLA and the late responded to various doubts raised Ajit PawarRegarding the plane crash, the RPI(A) chief said that his nephew, Rohit Pawar, did not think there was any foul play.
Rohit Pawar alleged that there was reason to suspect sabotage in the tragic plane crash and demanded a comprehensive probe by multiple expert agencies.
“We are demanding a detailed investigation into the accident. Some people are raising doubts about the possible sabotage angle, but I don’t think there was any foul play. Sharad Pawar Sahib himself clarified on the same day that it was an accident,” Athawale told reporters.
He demanded a detailed investigation into the matter and action against the responsible officials.
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“The pilot should have avoided landing at the airport and flown to Pune,” he added.
Ajit Pawar, Captain Sumit Kapoor, co-pilot Captain Shambhi Pathak, personal security officer Bideep Yadav, and flight attendant Pinky Mali were killed in a Learjet crash near Baramati Airport in Pune district on 28 January.
Athawale visited NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, who was admitted to Pune’s Ruby Hall Clinic.
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Sharing an update on the veteran politician’s health, he said Pawar Sahib’s health is stable and he is recovering well. “He will soon be healthy and hearty,” the minister added.
Commenting on the controversy surrounding former army chief General M.M NaravaneIn his unpublished memoir, he said the book referred to Chinese incursions into Indian territory and General Naravane sought guidance from the government, with the prime minister reportedly advising him to “do what is appropriate”.
“In such a situation, there is no need to seek directions from the government as the local army officers themselves are authorized to take appropriate action. It seems an attempt is being made to defame PM Modi,” he said.
