Bhopal: Mortal remains of lone survivor of the Tamil Nadu chopper crash Group Captain Varun Singh who breathed his last on Wednesday at the military hospital at Bengaluru will be airlifted and brought to Bhopal, Collector Avinash Lavania said. Following his arrival, a tribute program is scheduled at Sun City Colony Airport Road on Friday with the last rites being performed at 11 am at the Bhadhada Vishram Ghat.
Singh who was onboard the ill-fated Mi-17 chopper was the only survivor of the crash in which CDS Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika along with 11 armed personnel had lost their lives. He was pulled out of the wreckage and immediately transported to Bengaluru for medical aid. While battling against the odds, Captain Varun who was on life support breathed his last, informed the IAF in s statement.
MP CM Chouhan paid tributes to the decorated officer saying he was a fighter till his last moment and country will never forget his dedication and service.” The nation has lost its brave son, Group Captain Varun Singh, who was in the Tamil Nadu helicopter crash. He always served “ Maa Bharat” with pride, valour, professionalism and dedication. His service will never be forgotten, said CM.” Several other prominent leaders including PM Modi expressed grief and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
The 39-year-old Captain belonged to Bhopal and graduated from NDA in 2003. He was commissioned as a fighter pilot in 2004 and mainly flew jaguars and Tejas in his flying career. On August 15, Late Captain Varun was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for averting a possible mid-air accident after his Tejas light combat aircraft suffered a major technical issue last year.