Indian soldier in Pakistan’s captivity: It will take some time to bring him back, says Parrikar

Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the surgical strikes launched by Indian troops on Pakistani terrorists, an innocent Indian solider inadvertently crossed the Line of Control, leaving his family in a shock. Responding to the soldier’s plight, the Indian government has assured that all efforts are being made to free Chandu Babulal Chavan, an army soldier from 37 Rashtriya Rifles, from Pakistan’s activity. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, however, said that “it will take some time” to bring the soldier back as the “situation is tense right now.” “There is a well-established mechanism through DGMO (Director General of Military Operations) which has been activated,” Mr Parrikar said on October 2. He ruled out any relation between “the surgical strikes carried out by the Army in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the soldier crossing the border inadvertently.” Earlier, Home Minister Rajnath Singh had assured that ‘all attempts’ were being made to free the soldier from Pakistan’s captivity. The Indian army has informed the Pakistan about this incident. However, no official confirmation has been made by Pakistan related to the soldier’s captivity. Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre visited the family of the soldier and comforted them. “No one can trust them (Pakistan). We are worried they will torture him, and tell him lies that the army doesn’t care about him. That could drive him to take his own life,” he said. The 22-year-old soldier’s plight has proved to be tragic for his family as his grandmother died of heart attack after hearing the news.