Ranchi (IANS): Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed deep grief on Friday over the tragic deaths of two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots following a Sukhoi Su-30MKI crash in Assam. The crash claimed the lives of Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar.
Tributes to the Bravehearts
In a heartfelt social media message, CM Soren honored the fallen officers. “The news of the Su-30 crash in Assam and the loss of our bravehearts… deeply pains me. Their service and sacrifice for the nation will never be forgotten,” Soren stated. He extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families, affirming that the state stands with them in this hour of grief.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid tribute to the officers on Facebook, calling their martyrdom “deeply saddening.” He offered his heartfelt respects to the “brave sons of India” and noted that the entire nation shares the families’ sorrow.
IAF Confirms Fatalities
The Indian Air Force confirmed on Friday that both Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Duragkar sustained fatal injuries during the accident on Thursday. In a post on X, the IAF expressed sincere condolences and pledged firm support to the grieving families.
Details of the Incident
Defence officials reported that the Su-30MKI was conducting a routine training mission when it went down in the Karbi Anglong area of Assam, approximately 60 km from Jorhat. The aircraft reportedly lost radar contact during the sortie before crashing.
While the Sukhoi-30MKI remains a cornerstone of India’s frontline multi-role air defense, this incident marks a rare double fatality. Similar crashes in the Tezpur region in 2015 and 2019 saw pilots successfully ejecting before impact.
