Wednesday morning three Pakistani F-16 tried to violate the Indian Air Space but were swiftly by Indian airforce’s response. They promptly thwarted PAF’s F-16 and intercepted on them. But while intercepting other PAF’s other Fighters one of IAF’s MIG 21 which was piloted by of Abhinandan Varthaman cross the LOC and was intercepted by Pakistani armed forces. The aircraft was destroyed, but the pilot had safely ejected and later was captured by Pakistani authorities.
There were several videos on social of him being beaten by Pakistani locals and getting captured. Now because Abhinandan Varthamam was captured in a defensive action by IAF in response to Pakistan’s Violation of Indian Airspace therefore under Geneva convention, he is a POW. Therefore, he should be granted the following rights under the Geneva Convention Act. Under the 1977 Geneva convention Act,
- He shouldn’t be physically or mentally harmed.
- The capture POW should be retained by the respective party and prevent him from further participating in the conflict.
- He can be interrogated but no acts of violence should be committed by the respective party that is not lawful under the international humanitarian law, IHF.
- POW is must be treated humanely in all circumstances.
- At the end of the conflict when the situation has been resolved between both the parties, The POW should be returned to his respective side.
So what does this mean for IAF’s Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman?
This means that under the Gene act Pakistan Shouldn’t try to commit any acts of violence that are unlawful in the IHL. And after the conflict is resolved between India and Pakistan he should be let free by Pakistan.