A Jaguar fighter aircraft belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Bhanuda village of Rajasthan’s Churu district earlier today, leaving two individuals dead, including the pilot.
The crash sent shockwaves through the local community after a thunderous noise, followed by rising flames and thick smoke, alerted villagers.
Eyewitnesses described a fiery descent, with the jet engulfed in flames before hitting the fields and igniting a blaze. Local residents attempted to douse the fire before emergency response teams arrived.
The body of the pilot was found near the debris, severely charred, making identification difficult. The Army and district authorities are currently working to identify the deceased and determine the reason behind the crash.
District Collector Abhishek Surana and senior police officers rushed to the site, which has been cordoned off for safety and further inspection. The Indian Army has confirmed that a detailed investigation will follow.
Initial reports hint at a possible technical failure, but an official cause is yet to be established.