RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Praises Captain Smita Machhar for Heroism During Flight Incident
Mohan Bhagwat commends Captain Smita Machhars bravery during a flight attack, highlighting values of Hindu nature and national unity.
Nagpur, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), lauded Captain Smita Machhar during the annual Vijayadashami event in Nagpur. He emphasized that her actions symbolize the deeply ingrained values and traditions of Indian society.
Speaking at the event, Bhagwat remarked that Machhar’s response to a critical situation was not merely the result of training, but a reflection of her inherent values. “What Captain Smita Machhar did recently was instinctive. There was no training for such a moment; it was her traditions and values that emerged during the test,” he stated.
He described this instinct as the essence of Hindu nature, which nurtures and protects the dignity and security of diversity. Bhagwat asserted that such actions serve as a constructive force for national unity and global harmony.
The RSS chief further explained that the organization aims to instill these values not just through speeches, but through practical actions. He noted that people come to the RSS not just to listen to talks, but to practice these sentiments through their deeds.
Captain Smita Machhar was piloting a Boeing 737 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when her co-pilot attacked her with a knife. Despite sustaining serious injuries, she managed to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to subdue the attacker and prevent further escalation.
The aircraft began to descend rapidly due to the incident, prompting passengers and crew members to intervene and regain control. An emergency landing was later executed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, with all 174 passengers reported safe.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Captain Machhar, calling her a “hero” and commending her bravery and determination. He noted that her quick thinking saved many lives and averted a major tragedy.
Captain Machhar has over 13 years of experience in aviation. Before joining Flydubai, she worked with SpiceJet as a line training captain and has logged nearly 9,750 hours flying primarily on Boeing 737 aircraft.
