Mumbai, Feb 17 (NationPress) In the midst of an escalating controversy, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has called for a CBI investigation into the demise of former Deputy Chief Minister and national president Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28.

The state president and MP Sunil Tatkare announced that a memorandum advocating this inquiry was presented to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday.

A high-powered delegation met with the Chief Minister today, featuring NCP National Working President MP Praful Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajitdada Pawar, State President Sunil Tatkare, Senior Minister Hasan Mushrif, and youth leader Parth Pawar.

Tatkare stated that the Chief Minister assured the delegation that the state government would reach out to Union Home Minister Amit Shah tomorrow, indicating that measures would be taken to initiate the CBI investigation as requested by the NCP.

The NCP has pointed out several serious irregularities and suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, such as last-minute alterations to the flight crew, necessitating an examination of operational decision-making and authorizations, as well as inconsistencies in Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications and the order of runway clearances.

The party also expressed concerns regarding the functionality and reliability of essential onboard safety warning systems.

Furthermore, the NCP highlighted the absence of any recorded distress communication, despite the aircraft nearing landing. They raised issues needing forensic assessment, including crew fitness, maintenance compliance, and aircraft system performance.

Tatkare noted that Union Ministers Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu and Murlidhar Mohol were present during the unfortunate incident.

“While autonomous bodies and a CID investigation ordered by CM Fadnavis are already in progress, the NCP believes a CBI inquiry would provide the necessary scope,” he added.

“Although independent agencies and international bodies typically investigate such accidents, we seek a more thorough inquiry. All concerns must be investigated comprehensively, and the results should be shared with the public promptly,” Tatkare clarified.

The demand from the Ajit Pawar faction arises amidst disclosures by NCP SP legislator Rohit Pawar alleging that the plane crash was a result of sabotage, calling for a high-level investigation.

He also voiced concerns over the absence of a preliminary investigation report and the uncertainty surrounding the ongoing inquiry. NCP legislator Amol Mitkari, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, and party deputy leader Sushma Andhare also questioned whether the incident was an accident or an act of sabotage.

Meanwhile, Tatkare provided insights into a meeting with BJP State President Ravindra Chavan regarding the forthcoming District Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections.

“Discussions revolved around how the 'Mahayuti' (Grand Alliance) can progress collaboratively. The discussions were deemed 'satisfactory and cordial.' He noted that the BJP is a key partner in the NDA, and the discussions were conducted with mutual respect for all allies.

In response to rumors of discord within the party, Tatkare clarified that there was no discussion regarding 'disgruntled MLAs' during Monday’s party meeting led by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar.

“These reports are simply fictitious. The NCP legislative party and the state unit are united. The meeting was focused on supporting Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar as she leads the organization with patience and determination while further strengthening the party structure,” he stated.