States » NorthPosted at: Oct 5 2026 3:30PM


Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma urges PM Modi to consider Ashoka Chakra for pilot Smit Machchhar

Panchkula, Oct5 (UNI) Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the government to consider conferring the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, on Flydubai pilot Captain Smitt Machchhar for his exceptional courage and devotion to duty during a serious mid-air crisis.
Machchhar, a Mumbai-based Indian pilot, was reportedly seriously injured during Flydubai flight FZ1073 after his co-pilot allegedly attacked him and attempted to hijack the aircraft.
Despite sustaining injuries and facing an extremely stressful situation, Machchhar remained focused on his responsibilities and prioritised the safety of all 174 passengers on board.
In a letter to Prime Minister Modi, Sharma said Captain Machchhar’s courage, composure and presence of mind in the face of grave danger represented an inspiring example of resilience and commitment to duty.
The Rajya Sabha MP said Machchhar’s decision to put the safety of passengers above his own pain and personal safety demonstrated extraordinary courage, professionalism and a deep sense of responsibility.
Sharma further said that recognising such an act of bravery at the national level would not only honour the Captain but also inspire young Indians to uphold courage, duty and responsibility during moments of crisis.
The MP urged the Prime Minister to consider Captain Machchhar for the Ashoka Chakra, saying that his conduct during the mid-air crisis was a matter of pride for the country.UNI KK AAB
Tags: #Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma urges PM Modi to consider Ashoka Chakra for pilot Smit Machchhar
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