Maharashtra Minister Sanjay Shirsat has urgently called for a comprehensive investigation into the plane crash that resulted in the tragic death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on January 28, 2026. The accident, which also claimed the lives of four others, has raised significant concerns regarding the safety protocols of chartered flights in the state. Speaking to reporters in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Shirsat emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the aviation sector following this devastating incident.
Shirsat expressed his apprehension about the current state of chartered flight operations, likening the use of helicopters to that of autorickshaws without proper maintenance checks. This statement comes in light of a recent technical snag in a helicopter intended for Pankaja Munde during her campaign for the Zilla Parishad elections. The minister's remarks underscore the urgent need for stricter regulations and safety measures within the private aviation industry.
- Aviation safety protocols — Shirsat suggested limiting pilot flying hours and enforcing stricter maintenance schedules for chartered flights.
- Renaming scheme proposal — A proposal is underway to rename the Ladki Bahin Yojana after Ajit Pawar, honoring his contributions.
- Political unity emphasized — Shirsat called for cooperation among political parties in the ongoing investigation.
Addressing the political landscape, Shirsat dismissed rumors of a merger between factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), asserting that the matter is nearly closed. He noted that many leaders within the ruling NCP are unwilling to align with Sharad Pawar, indicating a significant rift within the party following the tragic loss of its leader.
Furthermore, Shirsat condemned the practice of prioritizing profit over safety, stating that "playing with lives for quick money is unacceptable." He urged all political parties to come together to ensure that such tragedies do not recur in the future. The Maharashtra cabinet is expected to discuss safety protocols and the proposed renaming of the financial scheme in its upcoming session, highlighting the ongoing implications of this tragic incident.
