Kolkata, 01 October (H.S.): West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has saluted the indomitable courage of brave Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who successfully thwarted a horrific plane crash and hijack attempt on a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Expressing deep gratitude to this brave son of India on behalf of the people of West Bengal, the Chief Minister stated that Captain Machchhar has made the entire nation swell with immense pride through his extraordinary valour.

In his official statement, the Chief Minister remarked that amidst an unimaginable crisis mid-air, the bravery and quick presence of mind displayed by Captain Machchhar, despite being attacked with a knife inside the cockpit and sustaining severe injuries, is truly unparalleled. Adhikari described this heroic act as a shining reflection of India's great and timeless civilisational ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). He emphasized that the sacred duty of prioritising the safety of innocent lives above his own safety has touched hearts across the globe.

The Chief Minister also prominently highlighted that Captain Machchhar's supreme courage not only saved the lives of 174 passengers and crew members, including Israeli citizens, but his heroic act has further deepened the historic bonds of friendship, trust, and mutual respect between India and Israel. Extending best wishes on behalf of the people of the state, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty for Captain Machchhar's swift and complete recovery, hailing him as the true pride of India.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh