'Justice for My Father': Jay Pawar Demands Arrest of VSR Ventures Owner After Shocking Viral Video
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Mumbai, March 2 (NationPress) Jay Ajit Pawar has vehemently condemned the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) preliminary findings regarding the plane crash that resulted in the death of his father, former Deputy Chief Minister and NCP President Ajit Pawar. He described the investigation as "incomplete and superficial" and has called for a more thorough inquiry along with the immediate arrest of the airline’s owner. This demand follows the emergence of a viral video that allegedly depicts Rohit Singh, the owner of VSR Ventures, sleeping in the cockpit's main pilot seat during a flight.
In a heartfelt post shared on social media (Instagram), Jay Pawar expressed his deep sorrow and frustration concerning the investigation's current status.
“Having reviewed the AAIB's preliminary report, I am filled with immense pain and sorrow. It is evident that this report lacks thoroughness and depth. The people of Maharashtra, along with all families who suffered losses in this tragedy, deserve clear answers and the truth—not just formalities,” he stated.
His concerns revolve around a video circulating online, which seemingly showcases the owner’s reckless disregard for safety.
“In the footage, VSR's owner Rohit Singh is shown dozing off in the pilot's seat mid-flight,” he remarked.
He emphasized, “This kind of negligence is unacceptable in aviation. It is a grave matter and utterly shocking. I have lost my father... this anguish will remain with me forever.” He has urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to intervene immediately, insisting that all aircraft operated by VSR Ventures be grounded until a comprehensive investigation is concluded.
Additionally, he has called for the prompt arrest of Rohit Singh, demanding stringent legal repercussions and a transparent investigation to ensure the safety of all passengers. "This is a son’s urgent plea," he concluded. "For my father, and for the safety of every individual on board,” he added in his social media message.
Earlier, the AAIB released a preliminary report on Saturday regarding the crash of a Learjet 45 (VT-SSK), which tragically claimed the life of Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. It indicated that the aircraft attempted to land with visibility at just 3,000 meters, significantly below the 5,000-meter minimum required for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at that airfield. The Baramati airfield was noted to be lacking essential navigational aids. The AAIB also pointed out that runway markings were faded (last updated in 2016) and critical windsocks were absent on the landing side (Runway 11).
According to the AAIB, the air traffic control tower was staffed by a ground instructor from a local flight school instead of a certified air traffic controller. CCTV footage revealed the aircraft banking right and colliding with trees prior to crashing to the ground at a lower altitude than the runway.