Political Power Play: Mid-Air U-Turn Over Ex-Minister Son Bangkok Trip

Maharashtra - In an episode that reads like a political thriller, Rishiraj Sawant, son of former Maharashtra minister Tanaji Sawant, found his secret trip to Bangkok abruptly curtailed, igniting debates over privilege and misuse of state machinery.  

On February 10, 2025, Rishiraj, 32, boarded a chartered flight to Bangkok with two friends without informing his family. His recent return from Dubai made him believe another international trip would not sit well with them.  

Back in Pune, an anonymous call to the police reported his abduction. Acting swiftly, authorities registered a kidnapping case. Investigations later revealed that Rishiraj had booked the chartered flight for a staggering ₹78 lakh.  

The flight, already en route over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, was suddenly instructed to return to Pune. The passengers remained unaware of the diversion until landing, a tactic used to prevent any mid-air disputes.  

Upon arrival, Rishiraj explained that he had kept his travel plans secret to avoid objections from his family.  

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties. Political leaders questioned why police and aviation authorities were mobilized so swiftly for a personal matter, while common citizens struggle with bureaucratic red tape. Some also pointed out the stark contrast between privileged individuals flying privately and ordinary people enduring crowded trains.