Tragic End to a Political Stalwart: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Dies in Air India Crash
June 13, 2025 — Ahmedabad: India woke up to heartbreaking news today as former Gujarat Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Vijay Rupani, 68, was confirmed among the victims of the devastating Air India flight AI-171 crash. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, resulting in the loss of over 240 lives—making it the deadliest aviation disaster in India post-COVID.
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Vijay Rupani |
The Tragedy Unfolds
Flight AI-171 took off around 1:30 a.m. local time. According to initial reports, the aircraft experienced a sudden communication breakdown minutes after takeoff, followed by a distress signal (“Mayday”) being sent by the pilot. Eyewitnesses reported flames in the sky and a loud explosion. Emergency services were unable to reach survivors in time, with only one passenger reportedly pulled out alive.
Among those on board were several key BJP functionaries returning from a strategy meet in Gujarat, including Vijay Rupani, who had been recently appointed BJP’s in-charge for Punjab. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves across political circles.
National Mourning and Political Reactions
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the country:
Sunil Jakhar, Punjab BJP leader, described Rupani as “a gentle soul and tireless leader who served with unwavering dedication.”
Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak called his death “an immeasurable loss to both state and nation.”
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav suspended all political rallies for three days, urging the central government to “ensure full investigation and accountability.”
The government has formed a high-level investigation panel to probe the cause of the crash and assess Air India’s safety protocols. The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that data from the black box has been recovered and analysis is underway.
A Glimpse at Vijay Rupani’s Legacy
Born in 1956 in Rangoon (now Yangon, Myanmar), Rupani moved to Rajkot with his family during his early childhood. He was actively involved with RSS and ABVP and entered public life through local politics. He served as Mayor of Rajkot and became a Rajya Sabha member from 2006 to 2012.
In 2014, he was inducted into the Gujarat cabinet, holding key portfolios like transport, labor, and water supply. In August 2016, he was appointed Chief Minister of Gujarat, a position he held until September 2021, after which Bhupendra Patel succeeded him.
Rupani was known for his clean image, grassroots leadership, and focus on infrastructure and industrial growth. His calm demeanor and dedication won him respect across the political spectrum.
The Personal Toll
Vijay Rupani is survived by his wife Anjali Rupani, son Rushabh, and daughter Radhika. His family is reported to be in deep shock. Years ago, he had lost his younger son, Pujit, in a tragic accident, after which the family established the Pujit Rupani Memorial Trust, focused on child welfare and education.
What Lies Ahead
The government has announced ex-gratia payments to the families of all crash victims. Tata Group, Air India’s parent company, has pledged ₹1 crore in compensation per deceased passenger. The UK government has also set up a special cell in London to assist affected Indian families.
As India mourns, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need to ensure stronger aviation safety standards.
