PM Modi's plane faces snag at Deoghar airport, delays his Delhi return

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft faced a technical issue at Deoghar airport in Jharkhand on Friday, causing a delay in his return to Delhi. The snag occurred after the PM attended an event in Bihar's Jamui, marking the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda, celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas .

After flying by helicopter to Jamui and back, Modi's aircraft encountered a fault as it prepared for takeoff. Sources confirmed that the issue was detected while the Prime Minister was on board, prompting a halt. Efforts to rectify the problem were unsuccessful, leading to a delay of over two hours.

A backup Indian Air Force plane was dispatched from Delhi to Deoghar, ensuring the Prime Minister's safe return to the capital. Deoghar deputy commissioner Vishal Sagar confirmed that Modi departed on the alternative aircraft once it arrived.

Earlier in the day, Modi addressed two rallies in Jharkhand, criticising Congress and its alliance with Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. He accused the opposition of conspiring against tribal and backward communities by threatening reservation policies.

Modi's visit came just days before the second phase of Jharkhand assembly elections , scheduled for November 20.