CM prays for safe return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman

Bhubaneswar: At a time when the whole country is saluting the indomitable patriotism and courage of Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who fell in the hands of Pakistan military yesterday after destroying the enemy F-16, CM Naveen Patnaik today prayed for his wellbeing.

Taking to twitter handle this morning, Naveen saluted the valour of Indian armed forces and hoped Abhinandan would return to his home safe.

Saluting the courage and valour of our forces, I hope and pray for the wellbeing and safe return of our brave pilot. #OurForceOurHero

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) February 28, 2019

Apart from Naveen, Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik also twitted for the safety of the IAF personnel and hailed his spirit.

Salute Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman's courage & indomitable spirit. A billion Indians are praying for his safety and well being. He will be back soon.#AbhinandanMyHero #MeraJawanSabseMajboot pic.twitter.com/8OS4OAlNvg

— Niranjan Patnaik (@NPatnaikOdisha) February 28, 2019

Notably, yesterday the MIG-21 Bison which Abhinandan was flying fell inside the Pakistani territory after successfully preventing and destroying an F-16 jet of the enemy country. Later, Pakistan released a video showing Abhinandan in their custody in an injured state.

India has issued a demarche to Pakistan, objecting the “vulgar display” of the injured IAF pilot which violates the resolutions of Geneva Convention (1949).