Ajit Pawar backs son Parth, points finger at sub-registrar in Rs 1,800 Cr Pune Land Scam

Ajit Pawar, suggesting that the allegations were being politicized, said, “Such allegations keep coming up during elections. In 2009, there were allegations of a Rs 70,000 crore scam, but no evidence has been found yet.”

Pune: Parth Pawar, son of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is embroiled in an alleged land scam in Pune. In his hometown of Baramati on Sunday, Ajit Pawar defended his son, stating that the sub-registrar who registered the sale deed is responsible.

Accusations Made Against Sub-Registrar

Ajit Pawar said, "How did the sub-registrar register this document? Why did he commit this wrongdoing? The investigation will reveal everything." The state revenue department has already suspended Ravindra Taru. This sub-registrar is allegedly guilty of waiving stamp duty of Rs 21 crore during the sale of 44 acres of Mahar Vatan land. The land's market value is reported to be over ₹1,800 crore and it was purchased by Amadia Enterprises LLP, a company of which Parth Pawar is a party.

Pune Land Deal Row: Maharashtra Dy CM Ajit Pawar distances himself from son Parth, says ‘no legal advice taken’

Accusations For Political Motives?

Ajit Pawar, suggesting that the allegations were being politicized, said, "Such allegations keep coming up during elections. In 2009, there were allegations of a Rs 70,000 crore scam, but no evidence has been found yet." He said that he always maintains transparency and follows the Constitution and laws.

Investigation Process

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has formed an investigation committee. Ajit Pawar said, "An FIR has been filed and the investigation is ongoing. The facts will soon emerge." He also said that officials, whether family members or close associates, should not succumb to pressure if someone wants to do something wrong.

Explained: What happened in the Pune land scam involving Ajit Pawar’s son? Detailed timeline

Reactions From Other Members Of Political Family

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, Parth Pawar's cousin, said that if a relative in power is involved in wrongdoing, the facts should come to light. He also said that it's not just one person who is involved, but the role of officials is also important. As for Baramati MP Supriya Sule’s support to Parth Pawar, Rohit said, “While taking the stand, Supriya Sule, who is a mother herself, turned emotional initially, but later she took a proper stand. Sharad Pawar has already articulated our stand.”

Parth Pawar has not yet commented on the matter.