Mumbai buzzed with political tension on Monday as NCP legislator Rohit Pawar, aligned with Sharad Pawar, issued a strong call for transparency in the investigation surrounding the untimely death of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Speaking to reporters outside the assembly complex, Pawar questioned the CBI’s progress, asserting that a thorough probe would reveal the truth and rally the ‘Marathi Manush’ in Maharashtra.
Pawar highlighted ongoing concerns raised by activists like Amol Mitkari and Rupali Thombare, who have persistently demanded answers. ‘I want a transparent investigation,’ he declared. ‘The case was handed to the CBI, but what have they done in the past month? Have they seized CCTV footage? Conducted essential criminal inquiries? So far, only superficial reports have surfaced.’
He leveled serious allegations, claiming evidence of ties between those in power and VSR, an aviation firm, including connections to ministers. While welcoming CBI involvement, Pawar expressed skepticism, noting the agency’s backlog of 7,075 pending cases. ‘This feels like cases being shelved,’ he said, urging a strict timeline for the probe.
Rohit Pawar revealed plans to meet the Chief Minister with a formal letter and supporting evidence. He mentioned a report already sent to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and DGCA, with 70% of information still withheld. ‘We’re not playing politics; we just want a proper investigation,’ he emphasized, recalling Ajit Pawar’s own wishes and support from MVA leaders like Sanjay Raut.
The final strategy will be decided after Sharad Pawar’s arrival in Mumbai and discussions with MVA allies. Paying tribute to Ajit Pawar, Rohit described him as a disciplined, sharp-witted leader who arrived first and left last in assembly sessions. ‘Maharashtra deserves to know the truth. We’ve lost a towering Marathi figure, but we’ll keep fighting for the people.’