India's First CDS General Bipin Rawat Is No More, Several Leaders Including PM Modi Expressed Grief

New Delhi: The country's first Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat is no more. He along with his wife and 11 other officers were killed in a helicopter crash that took place in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.

Many leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind have expressed deep condolences on the death of CDS Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 others.

Taking to the micro-blogging site twitter, PM said that I am deeply saddened by the helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu.

"I am deeply anguished by the helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu in which we have lost Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other personnel of the Armed Forces. They served India with utmost diligence. My thoughts are with the bereaved families," the Prime Minister tweeted.

At the same time, President Ram Nath Kovind said, 'Shocked and pained by the untimely demise of General Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika ji. The country has lost one of its bravest sons. His four decades of selfless service to the motherland was marked by exceptional valor and valor. My condolences to his family.'

Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, "A very sad day for the country as we have lost our CDS General Bipin Rawat ji in a very tragic accident. He was one of the bravest soldiers who has served the motherland with utmost devotion. His exemplary contribution and commitment cannot be expressed in words. I am deeply hurt.'

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted on the death of CDS Rawat, saying, 'I express my condolences to the family after the demise of General Bipin Rawat and his wife. This is an unprecedented tragedy and our condolences are with his family at this difficult time. My condolences to all who lost their lives. India stands together in this hour of sorrow.