MyVoice: Views of our readers 03th October 2026

Honour Capt Machchar and the brave passenger

Kudos to the gallant Indian pilot Capt Smit Machchar, whose decisive, timely action and valour saved the 174 passengers aboard the Israel- Flydubai flight from the jaws of death.

He was stabbed by his Oman co-pilot, allegedly with a wilful intention of crashing the plane and killing all the passengers, including several Israelis. One of the passengers also played a pivotal role in helping Machchar.

The intrepid passenger pounced upon the assailant and overpowered him. They both deserve the highest honours. Salute to the two who helped avert a potentially catastrophic midair tragedy.

Zubair Khan, Hyderabad

Salute to Capt Machchhar

Capt Smit Machchhar is most certainly a hero for saving the lives of passengers of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers onboard.

An evil attempt to kill the passengers was aborted by Machchhar’s presence of mind and valour. It is good to learn that Machchhar is in good health and recovering well.

K R Parvathy, Mysuru

Hail the real-life hero

A big salute to the pilot of Flydubai flight Capt Smith Machchar for his courage, commitment and humanity. It is real incidents like these that inspire generations rather than Hollywood and Bollywood stunts.

This brave act shows that one must stand up to unexpected attacks rather than panic, like Capt Machchar, who saved 175 lives. The attempt by the terror-linked Omani co-pilot who stabbed Captain Smith and wished to kill many Israeli passengers who were on board by crash landing the aircraft.

Countries which abet terrorists against India must view this incident as an eye-opener.

M Chandrasekhar, Kadapa

Machchhar’s composure averted mid-air tragedy

Capt Smit Machchhar has won widespread admiration for his remarkable bravery during the Flydubai cockpit attack. Even after being stabbed by his Omani co-pilot, the wounded pilot kept his composure, unlocked the cockpit door and enabled cabin crew and passengers to rush in and subdue the attacker.

His swift thinking and steadfast resolve under life-threatening assault underline the critical role of professionalism and calm judgment in aviation emergencies. The incident acquired added resonance as it coincided with Mahatma Gandhi’s 157th birth anniversary, honouring his enduring message of peace and non-violence that has inspired movements worldwide.

Amid continuing global conflict and violence, Machchhar’s courageous effort to protect human life stands as a powerful example.

N Sadhasiva Reddy, Bengaluru-560056

Tomorrow is World Animal Day

World Animal Day, observed every October 4, reminds us of our responsibility to protect animals and promote their welfare. The day is associated with St Francis of Assisi, who regarded all living creatures as precious gifts of God.

The official World Animal Day theme for 2026 is “See the World Through Their Eyes.” It encourages us to look beyond a human-centred view of the world and think about the animals’ needs, feelings, habitats, and well-being of animals. It reminds us to consider how our actions affect the animals with whom we share our planet.

Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai

Recognise Velmurugan’s feat

It is indeed heartening that Velmurugan, a head constable at Kovilpalayam police station in Coimbatore displayed extraordinary courage and valour by clinging to the roof of an SUV for nearly 40 km, risking his life to prevent gutka smugglers from escaping. The hot chase resulted in the arrest of three persons, who were allegedly transporting the contraband. Chief Minister Vijay reportedly met Velmurugan in Chennai and appreciated him for his daring act.

At a time when there is public concern over the effectiveness of policing, particularly against crimes such as murder and sexual violence, the courage, presence of mind and commitment to duty displayed by Velmurugan deserve due recognition. In another incident, 35-year-old woman head constable M Kannagi, reportedly chased a criminal who had attacked a person at Paramakudi Government Hospital and attempted to flee.

After pursuing him for about 50 metres, she returned to the hospital, where she collapsed and died. The Tamil Nadu Government has announced compensation of ₹30 lakh to her bereaved family. A police personnel who risks his/her life in the line of duty should not be allowed to remain an unsung hero.

Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai-92

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