Guwahati, March 6: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed grief over the crash of a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet in Karbi Anglong district, which resulted in the deaths of two Indian Air Force pilots.

The aircraft, on a training mission, took off from Jorhat Air Base on Thursday evening and crashed approximately 60 km away in Chokihola, Bokajan sub-division. Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar were killed in the incident.

The Chief Minister’s Office, in a post on X, said: “Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. @himantabiswa is deeply saddened by the tragic crash… which claimed the lives of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purbesh Duragkar.” The statement also conveyed condolences to the families, noting that the nation stands with them in their loss.

A defence spokesperson in Guwahati confirmed that debris was recovered early Friday, and Indian Air Force-led search and rescue operations continue in the remote hilly terrain.