CDS Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash: IAF
Coonoor : The Indian Air Force has released an official statement claiming the death of CDS Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika in a tragic chopper crash today. 11 other onboard also lost their lives in the accident.
"With deep regret, it has now been ascertained that Gen Bipin Rawat, Madhulika Rawat and 11 other persons on board have died in the unfortunate accident," IAF said.
Earlier, the IAF had informed that Gen Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was on a visit to Defence Services Staff College, Wellington (Nilgiri Hills) to address the faculty and student officers of the Staff Course today.
"Around noon today, an IAF Mi 17 V5 helicopter with a crew of 4 members carrying the CDS and 9 other passengers met with a tragic accident near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu," IAF tweeted. "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," IAF added.
READ Indian Air Force Statement Here:
Indian Air Force announces the demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat along with 12 others in chopper crash. “Gen Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was on a visit to Defence Services Staff College, Wellington (Nilgiri Hills) to address the faculty and student officers of the Staff Course today.Around noon today, an IAF Mi 17 V5 helicopter with a crew of 4 members carrying the CDS and 9 other passengers met with a tragic accident near Coonoor, TN. 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”, IAF said in a statement.
Soon after the news of his demise came in, tweets started pouring condolences. Congress party wrote, The nation is shocked & saddened by the passing away of Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. We stand with the nation at this time of grief. May he rest in peace."
PM Narendra Modi wrote, "Gen Bipin Rawat was an outstanding soldier. A true patriot, he greatly contributed to modernising our armed forces and security apparatus. His insights and perspectives on strategic matters were exceptional. His passing away has saddened me deeply. Om Shanti."
