Parth didn't know land belonged to state: Ajit Pawar
What's the story
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has defended his son Parth, who is embroiled in a controversy over the purchase of government land in Pune. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader said that neither Parth nor his business partner Digvijay Patil was aware that the 40-acre plot they bought for ₹300 crore belonged to the state. The deal has since been canceled, he added.
Controversial deal
Land sold for ₹300cr, but worth ₹1,800cr
The land in question was sold to Amedea Enterprises, a firm co-owned by Parth. However, its market value is said to be nearly ₹1,800 crore. The deal has been marred by allegations of undervaluation, procedural irregularities, and misuse of political influence. An FIR has been filed against several people involved in the sale deed for alleged misappropriation, cheating, and evasion of stamp duty..
Ongoing investigation
Probe ordered into unauthorized registration of land documents
The Revenue and Forest Department has formed a high-level committee headed by Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) Vikas Kharge to probe the "unauthorized registration of documents" related to survey no. 88 in Pune city. The panel will also look into whether the transaction caused any financial loss to the state exchequer. The report is expected within a month.
Denial of pressure
No payment was made for this transaction: Ajit Pawar
Ajit Pawar has denied any involvement or pressure from his office in the land transfer. He said, "How the registration was carried out and who is responsible will be revealed in the enquiry headed by Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Kharge." The Deputy Chief Minister added that no payment was made for this transaction and possession of the land was never taken.
High-level meetings
Ajit Pawar meets CM Fadnavis amid growing controversy
Amid the growing controversy, Ajit Pawar met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his official residence in Mumbai. He also held discussions with senior party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare earlier in the day. The Deputy Chief Minister has ordered action against any other land deals involving his relatives if irregularities are found.