Gogawale on Ramdas Kadam's doubts over Ajit Pawar plane crash: no conclusion until facts emerge

Discussion has revived in Maharashtra politics over the plane crash that killed the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam had expressed doubts about the crash. Minister Bharat Gogawale has now responded.

Speaking in a light but pointed manner, Gogawale said, "You can hold the stick of those who strike, but you cannot hold the mouth of those who speak." He made it clear that no conclusion can be drawn until the truth about the crash comes out.

Kadam had cited some meetings held before the crash while expressing his doubts. Asked about this, Gogawale said the question arises why a pilot would give up his life in this day and age. It was therefore necessary for the real picture to emerge, he said. He added that such talk has no particular meaning before the facts of the investigation are known.

Gogawale also spoke on the exchange of allegations between Sunil Tatkare and Ramdas Kadam. He said that at election time, before the tickets were announced, it was Kadam himself who had backed Tatkare's candidature. Gogawale said Kadam is a senior leader of the party and that they therefore have certain limits to observe. He also said talks were on at the senior level and that the dispute would be resolved.

Gogawale said Shinde had instructed them to honour coalition dharma, and they were therefore waiting for the decision of the seniors.

Minister Sanjay Shirsat had made a statement on the two Nationalist parties separating and a new faction forming. Gogawale was asked about it. In a jocular tone, he said that if Shirsat had received some information, they would ask him at the next Cabinet meeting.

Gogawale also reacted to Gulabrao Patil's statement on Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde coming together. He said in jest that Gulabrao Patil is like a rose. Gogawale said nothing of the kind appeared likely in the present circumstances, but that in politics one cannot say what will happen when.