Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Biju Patnaik during his address to Indonesia’s Parliament in Jakarta. He said Patnaik played a key role in bringing India and Indonesia closer during their freedom struggles.
Modi recalled that India strongly supported Indonesia’s independence at the United Nations. He also highlighted Patnaik’s daring mission to rescue Indonesian leaders from Dutch-controlled territory in 1947.
At the request of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Biju Patnaik accepted a risky assignment. The Dutch had blocked all escape routes and placed Indonesian Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir and Vice President Mohammad Hatta under house arrest.
Patnaik, along with his wife and co-pilot Gyanwati Patnaik, flew a Douglas Dakota aircraft into Indonesian airspace. Despite threats from Dutch forces, he completed the mission successfully.
The rescued leaders reached New Delhi on July 24, 1947, through Singapore. Their safe arrival helped draw global attention to Indonesia’s fight for independence.
Modi also said the sea has always connected India and Indonesia instead of dividing them. He described their shared maritime history as an important part of their strong partnership. He said the historic mission of Biju Patnaik remains a lasting symbol of courage, friendship, and cooperation between the two nations.