At least 27 people, including 25 children, were killed and more than 170 injured when a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka’s Uttara area at 1:06 p.m. Monday. The Chinese-made aircraft experienced a mechanical fault shortly after takeoff from the Kurmitola Airbase during a routine mission.
The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam Sagar, was among those killed. Rescue operations continued late into the night, and dozens remain in critical condition in various hospitals. Bangladesh has declared a national day of mourning and launched an investigation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences, stating India stands in solidarity with Bangladesh and is ready to provide all possible assistance.
Catastrophe at Milestone School: Grief and Heroism
Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror and chaos as the fighter jet plummeted and struck a two-storey building filled with primary and secondary students. Flames and smoke engulfed the structure, and bystanders, parents, and teachers rushed to pull the injured from debris.
Emergency teams worked to control the fire and treat severe burn injuries on-site before transporting victims to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. The military and hospital officials confirmed that most victims were children, with special prayers and support arranged for survivors and bereaved families. The school, attended by around 2,000 students, suffered major structural damage.
Investigating the Crash: Root Causes and Systemic Concerns
The Bangladesh Air Force stated the jet suffered a technical malfunction midair; investigators have begun probing maintenance records, pilot logs, and urban planning issues. The pilot reportedly tried to steer the disabled jet away from densely populated areas but was unsuccessful due to low altitude and obstructed approach paths.
Aviation experts note this is one of the deadliest air disasters in Bangladesh, raising new questions about the use of aging Chinese-made fighters—involved in the majority of previous BAF crashes—and the risks posed by schools and homes near busy air corridors. In response, Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus declared a national day of mourning, postponed nationwide exams, and assured the public of a transparent inquiry.
India’s Response: Solidarity and Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow on X (formerly Twitter): “Deeply shocked and saddened at the loss of lives, many of them young students, in a tragic air crash in Dhaka. Our hearts go out to the bereaved families. We pray for the swift recovery of those injured.”
He added, “India stands in solidarity with Bangladesh and is ready to extend all possible support and assistance.” India’s prompt offer of help underscores the close bilateral relations and shared commitment to humanitarian aid in times of crisis.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This devastating tragedy underscores how the consequences of technical failures can ripple through entire communities, especially when civilian infrastructure lies near military installations.
While the nation rightly mourns its lost children, it is vital that future policies prioritise the safety of educational spaces and transparency in aviation operations. We urge authorities to engage experts, community members, and civil society in shaping solutions that prevent such horrors from recurring.
