In February 2019, one of the most high-risk events in recent India-Pakistan relations was when Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was detained by Pakistan after an air-to-air dogfight between the two countries’ air forces.
Background
The event took place amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, 2019, when more than 40 Indian paramilitary personnel lost their lives. In retaliation, India launched airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan, on February 26, 2019.
On February 27, Pakistan retaliated with its own airstrikes. In the air battle, Wing Commander Abhinandan, piloting a MiG-21 Bison, destroyed a Pakistani F-16 (a fact denied by Pakistan but corroborated by some foreign sources). His plane was damaged in the process, and he had to eject, landing in Pakistan-occupied territory.
Capture and Detention
Abhinandan was taken into custody by the Pakistani army and video of his detention — including photos of him blindfolded and bleeding — went viral, causing widespread alarm and diplomatic pressure from India. But a later-released video depicted him as calm and composed, praising the professional behavior of the Pakistani army.
Diplomatic and Public Response
The incident brought huge public and media outrage in both nations. Although there was huge nationalistic sentiment in India, international actors such as the United States, China, and the UAE called for restraint.
On February 28, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan made a statement in parliament that Abhinandan would be released as a “gesture of peace” — a move widely perceived as a step towards de-escalation.
Return and National Hero Status
On 1 March 2019, Wing Commander Abhinandan was released to Indian authorities at the Wagah border. There were celebrations across the country upon his return. He was subsequently awarded the Vir Chakra, which is India’s third-highest wartime military honor, for his valor and presence of mind while being held captive by the enemy.
Legacy
Abhinandan Varthaman’s capture and release became a symbol of dignity and self-control in warfare. It indicated both the unpredictability of India-Pakistan relations and the value of backchannel diplomacy and global pressure in halting further escalation.
