In a devastating tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the nation, former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, has died in the Ahmedabad plane crash that occurred shortly after take-off on Wednesday. The Air India flight, bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing dozens on board.
According to sources close to the family, Rupani was on his way to visit his wife and daughter, who currently reside in London. His untimely demise has not only plunged the state of Gujarat into mourning but has also brought an outpouring of grief from across the political spectrum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling Rupani’s death a “personal loss” and praising his decades of service to Gujarat and the nation. “Vijaybhai was a dedicated leader, a close colleague, and a fine administrator. His loss is immeasurable,” the PM stated on X (formerly Twitter).
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was carrying 242 people, including passengers, crew members, and pilots. It tragically crashed near a student hostel at BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad, also claiming the lives of several students.
Emergency teams are on-site, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. Civil aviation authorities have confirmed that black box recovery efforts are ongoing, and initial findings will be shared with the public as soon as possible.
State government officials have announced a three-day mourning period in Gujarat in honour of the late leader.
Rupani, 68, served as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2016 to 2021 and remained an influential figure in BJP politics. His legacy includes several key infrastructure and welfare projects that transformed Gujarat’s urban and rural landscape.
