Defense Minister Rajnath Singh gave information in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha regarding the death of 13 people, including CDS General Bipin Rawat and his wife, in a helicopter crash in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. This is the first time that any information about this incident has been given publicly by the government. Rajnath Singh said that an inquiry has been ordered regarding this incident and along with the CDS, the last rites of all the jawans will be performed with full military honors.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh told in the House that 13 people have died out of 14 aboard the chopper. He also told how the rescue teams did everything possible to save the remaining 13 as well. He said the injured were taken to Wellington Hospital after the incident. Group Captain Varun, the lone survivor of the incident, is currently on life support system. Rajnath Singh said that the Indian Air Force has ordered a tri-service inquiry after this crash. The investigation will be headed by Air Marshal Manvendra Singh.
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Rajnath Singh told that General Bipin Rawat was going to attend one of his predetermined functions. Takes off from Sulur at 11:48 am. It was supposed to land in Wellington at 12:15, but lost contact with air traffic control at 12:08. During this, when people heard the voice, they reached the spot and immediately started the rescue. According to the information received, 13 of the 14 people on board the helicopter died. These included CDS Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika Rawat. General Bipin Rawat was on one of his scheduled events to interact with the students of Defense College, Wellington.
Rajnath Singh said that all the mortal remains will be brought to Delhi by Indian Air Force aircraft this evening and the last farewell will be given with full respect.
