Indian Govt opposes Pakistan’s ‘vulgar display’ of injured IAF pilot

New Delhi, February 27, 2019:

Amid escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries of India and Pakistan, the Indian Government summoned the acting high commissioner of Pakistan and demanded the immediate and safe return of an IAF pilot who was detained by Pakistan following an aerial engagement by air forces of the two countries. The Government also expressed its objection to Pakitan’s ‘vulgar’ display of the injured IAF personnel, claiming it to be a “violation of all norms of International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Convention.”

The Ministry of External Affairs has released a statement in which it is stated that the nation expects his immediate and safe return. "It was made clear (during the meet with the high commissioner) that Pakistan would be well advised to ensure that no harm comes to the Indian defense personnel in its custody. India also expects his immediate and safe return", the statement read.

It is to be mentioned that videos have surfaced on social media of an Indian MiG 21 Bison pilot called Abhinandan Varthaman who is currently in Pakistan’s custody. The pilot was captured after a fierce battle between the two countries in which a Pakistan F16 Fighter Jet was downed after entering Indian airspace. A MiG belonging to the Indian Air Force was also destroyed during the confrontation.