NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar on Tuesday called for a detailed investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into the alleged involvement of Nashik-based godman Ashok Kharat in the fatal plane crash that claimed the life of his uncle, Ajit Pawar, reported PTI.
Speaking to reporters in Pune after visiting the CID office, Pawar claimed there were preliminary indications suggesting a possible connection between Kharat and the incident. He urged authorities to interrogate the self-styled godman as part of a broader probe, reported PTI.
Claims of suspicious rituals and prior warnings surface
Rohit Pawar alleged that certain ritualistic activities had been carried out near Ajit Pawar’s residence prior to the crash. He claimed that these acts were conducted through a local political figure from Baramati who was reportedly in contact with individuals close to Ajit Pawar, reported PTI.
According to Pawar, a goat was found hanging near the residence, and Kharat had allegedly warned a farmer about a possible attack on the Pawar family. He argued that these developments raise serious concerns and warrant further scrutiny by investigative agencies, reported PTI.
Questions raised over financial transactions and past allegations
The NCP (SP) leader also flagged unusual financial activity linked to Kharat, questioning a sudden increase in transactions in the godman’s bank account around January 27 and 28 – dates close to the crash.
Kharat was arrested earlier this year on charges related to alleged sexual exploitation and cheating. Pawar further alleged that the godman possessed sensitive video material that could have been used for blackmail, adding another dimension to the case.
Concerns over pace and direction of CID investigation
Rohit Pawar expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of the CID probe, stating that he had visited the department to submit additional evidence related to the crash. He criticised the absence of senior officials during his visit and questioned the seriousness of the investigation, reported PTI.
He alleged that instead of conducting a comprehensive probe, authorities appeared to be limiting their role to a preliminary inquiry. Pawar stressed that the case requires a thorough and transparent investigation due to its gravity, reported PTI.
Technical investigation involves multiple national and international agencies
Providing details about the technical aspects of the investigation, Pawar said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has shared certain data, while aircraft records are stored in official systems. He also noted the involvement of the National Transportation Safety Board in the case, reported PTI.
He raised questions regarding conflicting statements about the Cockpit Voice Recorder, pointing out that initial reports suggested it was damaged, while later updates indicated that data had been successfully retrieved, reported PTI.
Separate probes underway into crash involving Learjet 45
The fatal crash occurred on January 28 when a Learjet 45 aircraft operated by a private company went down near Baramati airport while travelling from Mumbai. The incident resulted in the death of Ajit Pawar and four others.
A “Zero FIR” was registered by Rohit Pawar in Bengaluru under provisions of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita. Officials have stated that this will be treated as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is conducting a parallel inquiry into the crash and had submitted its preliminary findings in February. Meanwhile, CID officials have confirmed that they are already probing an Accidental Death Report registered by Pune Rural Police.
Probe continues amid political and investigative scrutiny
With multiple agencies involved and fresh allegations surfacing, the case has drawn significant political attention. Authorities have reiterated that all evidence, including new submissions, will be examined as part of the investigation.
The developments are likely to intensify scrutiny around both the circumstances of the crash and the broader claims raised by Rohit Pawar, as calls grow for a more detailed and coordinated probe.
(With inputs from PTI)