SRINAGAR: It has been officially confirmed that India’s Chief of Defence Staff, Genea Bipin Rawat has died in the chopper crash that took place in Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The dead include his wife and 12 others.
The chopper was flying with 14 top defence officials on board. Officials said Group Captain Varun Singh SC, who was directing staff at DSSC with injuries is currently under treatment at Military Hospital, Wellington.
The crash is reported to have taken place barely 10 km short of the spot the chopper was supposed to land. The only five star General was on his way to attend a cadet interaction programme.
With deep regret, it has now been ascertained that Gen Bipin Rawat, Mrs Madhulika Rawat and 11 other persons on board have died in the unfortunate accident.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 8, 2021
My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their loved ones in this accident. Praying for the speedy recovery of Gp Capt Varun Singh, who is currently under treatment at the Military Hospital, Wellington.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 8, 2021
I also express my deepest condolences on the sad demise of Mrs Madhulika Rawat and 11 other Armed Forces personnel. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May God give them the strength to bear this tragic loss.
Praying for the speedy recovery of Gp Capt Varun Singh.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 8, 2021