The Indian Air Force confirmed on Wednesday evening that General Rawat, who was India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and his wife Madhulika Rawat were among the thirteen persons who died in a fatal chopper crash.
The IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter got airborne from Sulur for Wellington and there were 14 persons on board in the chopper including the crew. The CDS was on his way to the Defence Staff College in Wellington. The IAF said a Court of Inquiry has been ordered into the accident.
“Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Sh. #BipinRawat and his wife in a tragic helicopter crash. The nation will always be grateful to Gen. Rawat for his service to the nation. Om Shanti Folded hands
Jai Hind,” wrote Laxman on Twitter.
“Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of CDS Bipin Rawat ji and other officials in a tragic helicopter crash. My deepest condolences to the friends & family members,” said Indian cricket team captain Kohli in his tweet.
“Extremely pained to hear about the passing away of Shri #BipinRawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 army personnel in the tragic helicopter crash. Gratitude for his wonderful service to the nation. Om Shanti,” tweeted Sehwag.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic and untimely demise of Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife Mrs. Madhulika Rawat and 11 other personnel of our armed forces. My deepest condolences to their families and well-wishers,” Yuvraj said in a tweet.
RP Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Venkatesh Pradesh and Parthiv Patel have also expressed their condolences to the bereaved families.
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