Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday announced that the Pune land deal involving his son, Parth Pawar, has been cancelled. He added that a government-appointed committee investigating the alleged irregularities will submit its report within a month.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Ajit Pawar said he himself had recommended an inquiry into the matter and called for an impartial probe without any political interference.
Pawar also maintained that not a single paisa had been exchanged in the transaction and reiterated that every decision or deal must adhere strictly to the rules.
His statement came after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, citing a news report, alleged that a government plot worth ₹1,800 crore, originally reserved for Dalits, was sold to a company owned by the minister’s son for just ₹300 crore.
“On top of that, the stamp duty was also waived—meaning not only is it a robbery, but it even received a legal stamp of approval for the theft!” Gandhi alleged.
The Congress leader described the deal as “land theft by a government that itself was formed through vote theft.”
“They know that no matter how much they loot, they will return to power by stealing votes again. They have no regard for democracy, the public, or the rights of Dalits,” he said.
Gandhi also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on the issue.
“Are you silent because your government is supported by those very looters who usurp the rights of Dalits and the deprived?” he asked