Thu Feb 13 03:58:17 UTC 2025: ## Chartered Flight Carrying Ex-Minister’s Son Forced to Return to Pune Amidst Kidnapping Scare

**Pune, India** – A chartered flight carrying Rishiraj Sawant, son of former Maharashtra minister Tanaji Sawant, and two friends was forced to return to Pune airport on Monday night after a kidnapping scare. The plane, en route to Bangkok, was diverted mid-flight following an anonymous tip to Pune police.

Initially, the airline operating the chartered flight dismissed the request to return as a hoax. However, after verification with aviation authorities, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the decision was made to turn the aircraft around while it was over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The passengers, unaware of the diversion, were only informed upon landing.

The incident unfolded after Pune police received an anonymous call alleging that Rishiraj Sawant had been kidnapped. His father, Tanaji Sawant, a leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), immediately contacted the authorities. A kidnapping case was swiftly registered.

Investigations revealed that Rishiraj Sawant and his friends had booked the flight to Bangkok without informing their families, claiming it was a business trip kept secret to avoid familial disapproval. Upon landing in Pune, the trio were met by CISF personnel and escorted from the aircraft.

The airline executive stated this was an unprecedented event, with flight diversions typically only occurring due to medical or technical emergencies. The DGCA reportedly commended the airline’s swift response to the situation.

The incident has sparked controversy, with opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders accusing Tanaji Sawant of misusing police resources to retrieve his son. They questioned the police’s rapid response to an anonymous tip. Police maintain they acted appropriately given the circumstances.

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