Kalaburagi (Karnataka) [India], June 12 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said on Thursday that the Air India plane crash incident in Gujarat's Ahmedabad should be investigated, as all the facts, whether it was the pilots' fault or something else, should come out.
Speaking to the media, Kharge paid tribute and condoled the loss of lives in the incident.
"I pay my tribute and condolences to those who have passed away. The government should immediately help the families of those who have passed away, and also the people of the area where the plane crashed... Congress leaders will also help people manage this incident. This accident should be investigated. Was it the pilot's fault or the one who was at the task with providing information? all these things need to come out," the Congress Chief said.
The Air India plane from Ahmedabad to London with 242 passengers crashed in the Meghaninagar area near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday.
According to Air India, "Air India confirms that flight AI171, from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was involved in an accident today after take-off. The flight, which departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hours, was carrying 242 passengers and crew members on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 Canadian national and 7 Portuguese nationals. "
Meanwhile, expressing sadness over the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it is "heartbreaking" beyond words.
He said he is in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.
"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," PM Modi said in a post on X.
The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, an LTC with 8,200 hours of flying experience. He was assisted by First Officer Clive Kundar, who had 1,100 hours of flying experience, the official said.
As per Air Traffic Control (ATC), the aircraft departed from Runway 23 at 1339 IST (0809 UTC). It gave a mayday call to ATC, but thereafter, no response was given by the aircraft to the calls made by ATC.
"Aircraft immediately after departure from Runway 23, fell on the ground outside the airport perimeter. Heavy black smoke was seen coming from the accident site," the official added.