Abhinandan Varthaman's courage under fire
The pilot remained calm and replied in a clear and brave voice to questions thrown at him.
Hyderabad: Displaying outstanding courage while being held captive in enemy territory, Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, said, “I’m sorry Sir, that’s all I’m supposed to tell you. What else?!”
The IAF officer was captured on Wednesday by the Pakistan Air Force, a day after India carried out pre-emptive surgical strikes on a terror camp deep within Pakistan.
In the two videos that were released by the Pakistan military establishment confirming his capture, the officer exhibited dignity and pride. In the first video, he is seen blindfolded, hands tied and blood masked, under interrogation.
The pilot remained calm and replied in a clear and brave voice to questions thrown at him. At the end of the first video, after he disclosed his name, rank, service number and identified himself as a Hindu, he politely said, “I am in the custody of the Pakistan Army.”
When a wave of questions was thrown at him, he took them one by one, and coolly replied, “What else?” Lauding him for his courage, India has been praying for his quick return.
Air Commodore U.N. Ganguly (retired) said “He talked so very bravely like a true soldier. We are so proud of him. I am sure all your blessings and prayers have reached out out him for his safe return. I pray that he does not get tortured and comes home safe and sound in body and mind.”