Union Home Minister Amit Shah's helicopter experienced a technical glitch during its approach to land in Lakhimpur, Assam, on Saturday, February 11, 2023. The incident led to the immediate cancellation of his scheduled public rally in the region. Mr. Shah, along with all other individuals on board, was reported safe after the pilot successfully diverted the aircraft and executed a safe landing at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati.

The incident occurred as Mr. Shah was en route to Lakhimpur to address a BJP public gathering, part of his two-day visit to Assam. Following the detection of the technical issue, the pilot opted for a precautionary landing at the nearest major airport, prioritizing the safety of the Union Minister and the crew. There were no injuries reported, and the aircraft landed without further incident.

Upon landing in Guwahati, Mr. Shah was received by local officials and state BJP leaders. His subsequent itinerary was immediately revised. The planned public rally in Lakhimpur, which was a key engagement during his visit, was officially called off. Local party units informed attendees and the public about the cancellation, citing unforeseen circumstances related to the helicopter's operational issue.

Key details surrounding the incident include:

  • Date of Incident: Saturday, February 11, 2023.
  • Location of Glitch: During the landing approach over Lakhimpur, Assam.
  • Diversion Point: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati.
  • Occupants: Union Home Minister Amit Shah and his accompanying delegation.
  • Outcome: All occupants safe; Lakhimpur public rally cancelled.
  • Aircraft Type: Specific details about the helicopter model have not been officially disclosed in relation to the technical glitch.

Following the cancellation of the Lakhimpur rally, Mr. Shah proceeded with other engagements in his Assam schedule, which included various government and party-related programs. While the specific nature of the technical glitch was not detailed in official statements, the event underscored the stringent safety protocols in place for VVIP travel. Authorities have not yet released information regarding any formal investigation into the incident or the timeline for the helicopter's return to service. The postponed rally's new date will be announced by the state BJP unit in due course.