Jharkhand's CM Hemant Soren Expresses Sorrow Over IAF Pilots' Death in Su-30MKI Crash
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Ranchi, March 6 (NationPress) - Jharkhand's Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, expressed profound sorrow regarding the tragic loss of two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots following a Sukhoi Su-30MKI crash in Assam. The pilots have been named as Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar.
In a heartfelt message on social media, CM Soren conveyed his deep distress over the sorrowful event.
“I am deeply saddened by the reports of the Su-30 crash in Assam and the loss of our brave pilots, Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar. Their dedication and sacrifice for our country will always be remembered. My thoughts are with the grieving families. We stand united with them during this difficult time. Jai Hind!” wrote CM Soren.
Earlier, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also voiced his condolences regarding the demise of the two officers in the unfortunate fighter jet incident.
On his Facebook platform, Rahul Gandhi stated, “The news of the martyrdom of Indian Air Force soldiers Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar in a plane crash is profoundly heartbreaking. I extend my heartfelt tributes to these valiant sons of India and offer my deepest sympathies to their families. The nation stands with them in this moment of sorrow.”
The IAF confirmed on Friday that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Duragkar succumbed to injuries incurred in the crash that transpired on Thursday.
“All IAF personnel extend their sincere condolences and firmly support the families during this time of mourning,” the Air Force remarked in a post on X.
According to defense officials, the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft was engaged in a routine training operation when it crashed in the Karbi Anglong region of Assam, approximately 60 km from Jorhat. Reports indicate that the aircraft lost radar contact during its mission prior to the crash.
The Sukhoi-30MKI serves as one of the IAF's key multi-role fighter jets, significantly contributing to India's air defense capabilities.
Similar incidents involving this aircraft have occurred previously. In August 2019, a Su-30MKI went down in a paddy field near Tezpur during a training mission, although both pilots managed to eject safely.
Moreover, in May 2015, another Su-30MKI crashed about 36 km south of the Tezpur Air Force base shortly after takeoff, with both pilots ejecting safely before the aircraft's descent.