Group captain Varun Singh, who was rescued after the helicopter crash that killed the Chief of the Defense Staff, General Bipin Rawat and 12 others on December 8, died today.
New Delhi: Captain Singh was being treated for severe burns at a military hospital in Bengaluru after being transferred from Wellington to Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. He had been hospitalized alive, authorities said.
The Indian Air Force said he died of his injuries this morning. The IAF said he died this morning from injuries sustained in the helicopter crash on December 8, 21. The IAF extends its sincere condolences and strongly supports the bereaved family, ”an Air Force statement said.
Last week there was a deluge of wishes and messages for award-winning officer Shaurya Chakra, who was the only one shot alive after the helicopter crash killed India’s top general.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought the nation to mourning for his death. “Group Captain Varun Singh served the nation with pride, courage and great professionalism. I am deeply saddened by his passing. His rich service to the nation will never be forgotten. Condolences to his family and friends.
Exactly one week ago, General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika and 12 others were flying from Sulur Air Base in Wellington when their Air Force Mi17V5 helicopter crashed into the hills seven minutes before landing. A high-level investigation is investigating the cause of the crash.
Captain Singh was first treated at Wellington Military Hospital. Last Thursday he was transferred to the Bengaluru Command Hospital. The officer’s father, Col. KP Singh, described his son as a fighter last week. The Air Force officer won the Shaurya Chakra in August for his bravery in handling his plane after he was hit by a hitch during an outing last year. He managed to land his Tejas fighter safely. His colleagues mourned the loss of one of the best in the country.
Recently, a letter that Group Captain Singh wrote to his school after receiving the Shaurya Chakra went viral.
“It is ok to be mediocre… but it is by no means a measure of things to come in life. Find your calling whatever you work towards, do your best never lose hope,” he had said in the letter, describing himself as an average student who found his calling and worked hard to excel in it.
