Mumbai’s political circles are reeling from the shocking demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a tragic plane crash. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has described the incident as deeply unfortunate, calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Speaking exclusively to reporters on Thursday, Raut emphasized that the public deserves answers. ‘Everyone needs to know what flaws led to this heartbreaking loss. What were the shortcomings in the aircraft? This information must be made public,’ he stated firmly.
Ajit Pawar, one of Maharashtra’s most prominent and influential leaders, leaves behind a void in the state’s politics that may never be filled. Raut paid heartfelt tribute, saying, ‘He was a popular figure whose contributions will be remembered forever. His absence is an irreparable loss to our political landscape.’
Raut drew parallels to a recent plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where several lives were lost, including that of former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. ‘Another aviation disaster has claimed our Deputy CM. It’s imperative now to conduct a proper inquiry and highlight the anomalies that caused this misfortune,’ he urged.
Gone are the days when mere tributes suffice, Raut asserted. ‘The Prime Minister, Chief Minister, and Home Minister will all pay homage, but what good does that do? We need action—investigations that uncover truths and steps to rectify systemic failures.’
He pointed to a pattern of aviation mishaps over the past decade, criticizing the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for forming committees without delivering concrete findings or reforms. ‘Tributes won’t bring back lives; only accountability will prevent future tragedies,’ Raut concluded, underscoring the need for systemic change in aviation safety.