PANAJI: As the nation mourns the tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Goa AAP MLA Venzy Viegas has demanded a formal inquiry into the crash, raising serious questions over aviation safety and accountability.
Pawar and four others died when the Learjet 45 they were travelling in crashed while attempting to land in Baramati, Pune district. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed that all aboard were killed.
Questioning the circumstances of the crash, Viegas said that if even VVIP flights are not safe, “then sacking anyone will be meaningless.” He asked whether ordinary Indians were safe, and whether the country continued to function in a truly democratic setup. “Do we still believe that people should fight for their rights in the right manner?” he asked, adding that the nation wanted answers.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also announced that the crash will be investigated to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Condolences poured in from national and state leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Pawar as a leader of the people, praising his understanding of administration and dedication to empowering the poor and downtrodden. Home Minister Amit Shah called his passing a personal loss, noting Pawar’s decades-long service to the people of Maharashtra. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remembered him for his compassion and commitment to public service.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said Pawar’s contributions to Maharashtra’s progress spanned decades, while Health Minister Vishwajit Rane praised his dedication to public welfare. GPCC President Amit Patkar called his death an irreparable loss, describing him as a man of the masses.
BJP Goa state president Damodar Naik, Protocol Minister Mauvin Godinho, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, and Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao also expressed grief and solidarity with the Pawar family.
