West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sparked significant political controversy following the tragic plane crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
While expressing she was “really shocked” and “stunned,” her comments pivoted toward a political conspiracy theory, questioning the security of the nation and hinting at “foul play.”
What Exactly Did Mamata Banerjee Say?
During a statement given in Kolkata, the West Bengal CM raised three primary concerns:
- Political Conspiracy Theory: She suggested a link between the crash and Ajit Pawar’s rumored political shift.“I learned on social media that Ajit Pawar was likely to leave the BJP, and it happened… Two days ago, I came to know someone from another party said he was willing to leave, and now this has happened today.”
- Safety of Political Leaders: She questioned the state of national security, stating:“There is no safety and security for the people of this country. If political leaders are not safe, what will happen to common people? We don’t know the fate of the opposition.”
- Demanding a Supreme Court Probe: Expressing a lack of faith in central investigative agencies, she demanded an investigation monitored directly by the judiciary.“The investigation should not be handed to agencies because, according to me, they are all sold. Supreme Court monitoring is the only trust left for the people.”
The “Family Reunion” Narrative
Banerjee also alluded to reports that Ajit Pawar was preparing to reconcile with his uncle, Sharad Pawar, and rejoin the original Nationalist Congress Party (SP). She remarked:
“Today he is in the opposition, but tomorrow he was supposed to return to the original course of his party. My condolences to Sharad Pawar ji.”
Kangana Ranaut’s Counter-Attack
BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, speaking to the media upon reaching Parliament, slammed Banerjee’s remarks as “petty” and “disrespectful.”
| Kangana Ranaut’s Key Points |
| Inappropriateness: Called it a “major tragedy” where political mudslinging should be avoided. |
| “Neech Baatein”: Described the conspiracy hints as “low-level talk” (neech baatein). |
| Call for Restraint: Urged the CM to show sanyam (restraint) while the entire nation is in mourning. |
Current Investigation Status
While political leaders debate the cause, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has released a preliminary report:
- Vessel: Learjet 45 (VT-SSK).
- Conditions: Dense fog and poor visibility at Baramati Airport.
- Sequence: The pilot reportedly stated “Runway not in sight” during the first attempt. The crash occurred during the second landing approach.