New Delhi (Web Desk): India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat died in a helicopter crash in the southern state of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, the air force said.
According to Indian media, a military helicopter carrying Indian officials including General Bipin Rawat crashed in Tamil Nadu. However, the reason for the crash was not immediately known.
In a post on Twitter, the Indian Air Force (IAF), also confirmed the news of the crash.
“An IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter, with CDS Gen Bipin Rawat on board, met with an accident today near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.”
An IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter, with CDS Gen Bipin Rawat on board, met with an accident today near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 8, 2021
An Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident.
The air force said an inquiry was underway into the accident.
Indian news agency also ANI tweeted about the crash, saying that there were 14 people on board, including General Rawat, his wife, defence assistant, security commandos and an IAF pilot.
A total of 14 people including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife, Defence Assistant, security commandos and IAF pilots were on board the chopper: Sources
— ANI (@ANI) December 8, 2021
Bipin Rawat was appointed as India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in late 2019. The position was set-up with the aim of integrating India's three services, the army, the navy and the air force.
