Mumbai, Nov 6 (NationPress) In the midst of an escalating controversy surrounding a substantial land transaction in Pune's affluent Mundhwa-Koregaon Park region, which involves the son of Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, the Maharashtra Chief Minister has initiated a thorough investigation. CM Devendra Fadnavis has mandated a probe led by a three-member committee, under the direction of Vikas Kharge, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department.

Characterizing the allegations as prima facie extremely serious, CM Fadnavis stated that the committee's task will be to investigate how government land was transferred without appropriate authorization and the rationale behind the waiving of stamp duty.

In his remarks to the media, the Chief Minister expressed that he has requested comprehensive reports from the Revenue and Land Records departments, assuring that stringent actions will be taken if any misconduct is uncovered, asserting that "even Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar would not endorse any wrongdoing."

This decision follows accusations by Ambadas Danve, the former Leader of Opposition in the state council and a leader of Shiv Sena UBT, who alleged that Ajit Pawar misused his authority, claiming that land valued at Rs 1,800 crore was acquired for a mere Rs 300 crore, with a nominal stamp duty of Rs 500.

“The company owned by Dy CM Ajit's son, Amedia, with a mere share capital of Rs 1 lakh, managed to buy such a high-value piece of land. This scam demands investigation,” he asserted.

Additionally, the revenue department has taken action by suspending Tehsildar Suryakant Yewale and Sub-Registrar Ravindra Taru due to their involvement in the transaction.

While Dy CM Ajit Pawar has refrained from commenting, Parth Pawar stated in a television interview, “I have not engaged in any unlawful or unethical conduct.”

Ambadas Danve highlighted that a 40-acre plot in the Mundhwa-Koregaon Park area, allegedly designated as government-owned land under the 'Watan' category (reserved for the Mahar community and safeguarded by the Bombay Inferior Village Watans Abolition Act, 1958), was sold to Amedia Enterprises LLP for approximately Rs 300 crore.

Interestingly, Parth Pawar is listed as a partner in the firm, which is registered at his residence in Pune's Yashwant Nagar.

Danve pointed out that the land's market value is reportedly significantly higher than the selling price, raising concerns about potential undervaluation.

“The company has initiated plans to construct an IT park and data center on the site. Parth Pawar should clarify this, allowing other young individuals to comprehend the secrets behind their achievements!” he remarked.

Danve further noted that the government machinery acted swiftly. “On April 22, 2025, Amedia Company resolved to establish an IT park. Remarkably, within just 48 hours, the Directorate of Industries waived the stamp duty for this project. What regulations permitted the Directorate of Industries to green-light a proposal from a company lacking experience and waiving the stamp duty? Moreover, this entire transaction transpired in just 27 days, with a stamp duty of only Rs 500 charged,” he added.

Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar has called for a judicial inquiry, labeling the deal a “violation of law” and advocating for a transparent investigation into Parth Pawar's company.

Former BJP minister Eknath Khadse, who resigned following allegations of a land scam during his tenure as revenue minister, has urged Ajit Pawar to step down from his role as Deputy Chief Minister until the investigation concludes.