In one of the worst aviation disasters in Indian history, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the 297 people killed when a London-bound Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Rupani’s grieving family on Friday and shared an emotional tribute, calling the loss “unimaginable.” Vijay Ramniklal Rupani, who was traveling in Business Class (Z class), was listed as the 12th passenger on the flight manifest. A senior BJP leader and close associate of PM Modi, Rupani had served in various key positions in Gujarat, including Rajya Sabha MP, Gujarat BJP President, Cabinet Minister, and ultimately as Chief Minister of the state.
The Air India aircraft, carrying 242 people — 229 passengers and 13 crew members — crashed minutes after departure, resulting in a fiery explosion. According to updated reports, 241 people on board have been confirmed dead, with only one passenger surviving the catastrophe. The tragedy further escalated when the plane crashed into the hostel of a nearby medical college, killing 56 people who were present in the building at the time. The total death toll now stands at a staggering 297. Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to mourn the passing of his longtime colleague and friend. “It is unimaginable that Vijaybhai is not in our midst. I’ve known him for decades. We worked together, shoulder to shoulder, including during some of the most challenging times,” he wrote.
Recalling Rupani’s political journey and unwavering commitment, Modi said, “Vijaybhai was humble and hardworking, firmly committed to the Party’s ideology. Rising up the ranks, he held various responsibilities in the Organisation and went on to serve diligently as Gujarat’s Chief Minister.” “In every role assigned, he distinguished himself — whether in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation, as Rajya Sabha MP, as Gujarat BJP President, or as a Cabinet Minister. His contribution to Gujarat’s development was immense,” PM Modi added. Reflecting on their collaborative work, Modi noted: “Vijaybhai ushered in many measures that enhanced Gujarat’s growth trajectory, particularly in boosting ‘Ease of Living.’ I will always cherish the interactions we had. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”