ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan's decision to release the captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan received immense appreciation in India on Thursday, with pouring in of gratitude messages from Indian politicians, celebrities and Kashmiri leaders on social media.

Indian Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh termed the announcement “a step towards goodwill between the two countries” and said he was very happy as had demanded his release earlier.

Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu in a message to Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “Every noble act makes a way for itself. Your goodwill gesture is ‘a cup of joy’ for a billion people. The nation rejoiced and I am overjoyed for the parents and loved ones of Indian pilot.”

Kashmiri leader and Chairman All Parties Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said, “Welcome decision by Pakistan PM to release the captive Indian pilot as a peace gesture. Hope better sense prevails, the war clouds scatter and the Kashmir dispute moves towards a peaceful resolution.”

Former chief minister of Indian-held Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti said, “The decision to hand over Wing Commander Abhinandan is a great gesture and shouldn’t be seen in isolation. It also comes at a time when Pakistan could’ve chosen to further escalate an already tensed situation. I see it as a mark of reconciliation. Our leadership should reciprocate.”

Journalist and author Sagarika Ghose said, “With apologies and respect to Modi Ji, but today he has been outdone and outshone in diplomacy, war strategy and public outreach by a swashbuckling cricket captain Imran Khan.”

Indian Cricketer Harbhajan Turbanator said, “Great News as Imran Khan says Indian pilot Abhinandan will be released as a goodwill gesture.”

Indian Journalist Burkha Dutt said, “I think we should welcome this gesture from Imran Khan on the release of Abhinandan. The door for de-escalation has been opened.”