Last-Minute Pilot Swap To Operator Lapses: Rohit Pawar Raises Doubts On Ajit Pawar Crash

Last Updated:February 10, 2026, 17:48 IST

The NCP (SP) leader called for an investigation into internal WhatsApp chats of the VSR company regarding pilots’ sobriety.

NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar on Tuesday raised fresh questions over the circumstances surrounding the death of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who died in an air crash last month.

In a detailed PowerPoint presentation to the media, Rohit Pawar raised concerns about the pilots and the operator of the Learjet 45 that crashed while attempting to land at Baramati table-top airstrip in Pune district on 28 January, killing his uncle Ajit Pawar and four others.

“Why was the main pilot changed before the flight? Sahil Madan and Yash were changed at the last minute. It is important to see why Sumit Kapoor returned from Hong Kong. Was he drunk when he boarded the flight?" Rohit Pawar asked.

He added that Kapoor’s past record raised questions, citing pre-flight alcohol tests in 2010 and 2017 and missed training in the US due to drinking.

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The NCP (SP) leader also called for an investigation into internal WhatsApp chats of the VSR company regarding pilots’ sobriety.

He called Ajit Pawar’s death as either an accident or a possible conspiracy. “This is a presentation I have made with my team. We have gathered information and tried to present whatever we could find," he said.

Rohit Pawar also questioned the safety and operational practices of Vista Sales Private Limited (VSR), the operator of the aircraft. He highlighted potential lapses including the aircraft’s 16-year age, the absence of hangar CCTV footage, possible manipulation of flight duty time limits, and non-functioning cockpit voice recorders.

He noted that VSR has several former DGCA officials as employees or consultants and suggested that the company may have undue influence over regulatory oversight.

Rohit Pawar also urged authorities to check whether routine and heavy maintenance was properly conducted and whether the aircraft was airworthy. He said the history of the company, including a 2023 Learjet accident whose report he believes is being suppressed, must be reviewed.

He stressed the need for accountability, saying ministers continue to use VSR flights despite the accident. He called for a full inquiry into mechanical, procedural, and regulatory lapses to ensure that justice is done for the Pawar’s family.

News politics Last-Minute Pilot Swap To Operator Lapses: Rohit Pawar Raises Doubts On Ajit Pawar Crash

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