Odisha CM prays for safe return of captured IAF pilot

Bhubaneswar: While the entire country is hoping for the safety of Wing Commander Varthaman Abhinandan who has been taken into custody in Pakistan, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today prayed for his well being and safe return.

Describing Abhinandan as a “brave pilot”, Naveen also saluted the courage and valour of Indian Armed Forces.

Saluting the courage and valour of our forces, I hope and pray for the wellbeing and safe return of our brave pilot. #OurForceOurHero

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) February 28, 2019

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Niranjan Patnaik also saluted Varthaman Abhinandan’s “courage & indomitable spirit”.

Salute Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s courage & indomitable spirit. A billion Indians are praying for his safety and well being. He will be back soon.#AbhinandanMyHero #MeraJawanSabseMajboot pic.twitter.com/8OS4OAlNvg

— Niranjan Patnaik (@NPatnaikOdisha) February 28, 2019

India yesterday said Pakistan has committed an “unprovoked act of aggression” by targeting Indian military posts with its air force and sought immediate and safe return of an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot in its custody.

After an aerial engagement in the J&K’s Nowshera sector yesterday, Pakistan claimed that it has captured one Indian pilot, identified as Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, a MiG 21 Bison pilot.

Also read: Captured IAF pilot must be treated humanely as per Geneva Convention.

India has issued a demarche to Pakistan, objecting the “vulgar display” of the injured IAF pilot in violation of all norms and said Islamabad must ensure that no harm is done to the Indian defence personnel in its custody.