Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Among Victims in Ahmedabad Air India Crash 

In one of the most catastrophic events in Indian aviation history, Air India Flight AI171 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing over 240 people on board and dozens more on the ground. Among the victims was senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the political spectrum, with leaders, citizens, and families grieving the loss of a respected public servant and a dedicated father.

A Personal Journey Interrupted

Vijay Rupani was on his way to London to visit his daughter, whom he had not seen for several months. The visit had been delayed multiple times due to his political commitments, and sources close to the family confirmed he was looking forward to spending quality time with his wife and daughter, both residing in the UK for the past year. This trip, meant to be a moment of familial reunion, ended in unspeakable tragedy.

Seated in the business class cabin of the ill-fated Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Rupani boarded the flight in good spirits, as witnesses at the airport terminal later recalled. Staff at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport spoke of a relaxed and cheerful demeanor as he cleared security, unaware that this would be his final journey.

The Crash: Moments After Takeoff

The flight, carrying over 240 passengers and crew, took off just after 1:30 PM local time. Within less than a minute of liftoff, the aircraft reported a loss of power and rapid descent. Eyewitnesses from nearby buildings described hearing a loud rumble followed by a massive explosion. The aircraft crashed into a densely populated area adjacent to a government hospital complex, igniting fires in residential blocks and medical hostels.

Emergency services responded immediately. Despite their efforts, the sheer magnitude of the crash and resulting fires made rescue operations extremely difficult. The wreckage was scattered across multiple buildings, with several structures partially collapsed. The area was turned into a chaotic war zone of smoke, sirens, and grieving families rushing to the scene.

National Grief: A Leader Lost

Vijay Rupani’s death was confirmed several hours after the crash, when authorities began releasing the names of identified victims. His passing was mourned not just in Gujarat, but across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling Rupani “a calm, visionary leader who dedicated his life to public service.” Home Minister Amit Shah also offered condolences, emphasizing Rupani’s “unshakeable integrity and decades of service to Gujarat.”

Political parties across ideological lines put aside differences to honor Rupani’s memory. Congress leaders, Aam Aadmi Party members, and regional allies released statements praising his leadership during times of crisis, including his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Gujarat and his focus on improving infrastructure and water conservation in rural areas.

The Gujarat state assembly held a special session the following morning, observing a moment of silence and paying tribute to the former Chief Minister. His hometown of Rajkot observed a complete shutdown, with people taking to the streets in silent marches holding candles and portraits of the late leader.

A Family Shattered

For the Rupani family, the loss is not only public but intensely personal. His wife, Anjali Rupani, and their daughter, who were waiting for his arrival in London, received the news through a direct call from the Indian High Commission. The family has chosen to return to India for the final rites, which will be held with full state honors.

Close friends of the family described him as a devoted father who made time for his children despite the immense pressures of public life. His daughter, who resides in London for higher education and work, was reportedly in constant communication with him during the hours leading up to the flight.

Human Cost Beyond Politics

While Rupani’s passing drew national headlines, the human cost of the tragedy goes far beyond one figure. Families from across India, including students, professionals, and elderly couples, were among the deceased. Several medical students and young doctors staying in hostels near the crash site were also killed, as the falling aircraft damaged parts of the hostel buildings. In some cases, entire families traveling together were wiped out.

Survivors and eyewitnesses recounted scenes of unimaginable horror. One man, a resident in a nearby apartment, described hearing children screaming from the wreckage before the flames consumed the area. Rescue workers spoke of pulling out charred bodies, many of whom may never be fully identified without forensic aid.

The only known survivor from the aircraft, a British-Indian passenger seated near the emergency exit, is recovering in a local hospital. He is reported to be in stable condition and has begun recounting the moments leading up to the crash. Authorities are expected to take his testimony as part of the ongoing investigation.

Investigation and Accountability

Aviation authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. The black box flight recorder has been recovered and is being analyzed by a joint team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Indian Air Force, and international experts. Preliminary speculation includes possible engine failure or technical malfunction, but no official cause has been declared yet.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has temporarily grounded other aircraft of the same model until safety checks are completed. Additionally, Air India has suspended all non-essential international routes pending internal safety audits.

In a press conference following the tragedy, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson expressed deep sorrow and pledged full transparency in the investigation. “This is a difficult day for all of us,” he said. “We will do everything possible to support the families and ensure accountability.”

Tata Group’s Response

Air India’s parent company, Tata Group, announced an immediate compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased passenger. The company also offered long-term support, including financial aid for the education of children who lost parents and medical support for survivors. Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said, “This is not a loss we take lightly. We stand with every family that is grieving today. These were not just passengers; they were part of our community.”

Memorial services are also being planned by the company in multiple cities, including a special tribute to Vijay Rupani.

Legacy of Vijay Rupani

Born in Rangoon (Yangon), Burma, in 1956, Vijay Rupani moved to India during his childhood and later became a prominent face of the Gujarat BJP. From his early days as a municipal corporator in Rajkot to his rise as Chief Minister, Rupani’s political journey was marked by diligence, humility, and a quiet dedication to governance.

He was instrumental in promoting investment in Gujarat through the Vibrant Gujarat Summit and made significant strides in urban development and women’s welfare. Even after stepping down as Chief Minister, he remained active in mentoring young politicians and engaging in public dialogue.

His death leaves a void not only in Gujarat politics but also in the broader landscape of Indian public service. For many, he was a symbol of stability and sincerity—a leader who avoided unnecessary fanfare but delivered results.

The Air India crash of June 12, 2025, will be remembered as one of India’s darkest days. The loss of lives, the destruction, and the heartache are beyond measure. But among the debris, the stories of love, duty, and courage endure. Vijay Rupani’s final journey was meant for family, but in his tragic end, he brought a nation together in mourning and remembrance.

As India searches for answers and accountability, it also pauses to honor not just the high-profile names, but every soul lost in this unimaginable disaster. Their memories will live on in hearts, policies, and the future safety of aviation in the country.