Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani killed in Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad

Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani (Courtesy: PTI file photo)

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is among the 241 people who died in the Air India AI171 plane crash near Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon. His office earlier today said Rupani was severely injured in the crash.

According to reports, Rupani was listed as passenger number 12 on the flight manifest. He is survived by his wife Anjali Rupani and two children — a son and a daughter.

Union Minister CR Patil confirmed that Rupani was onboard the ill-fated flight which crashed in Meghaninagar area near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. "Vijay Rupani was flying to London to meet his family members. He is among the 241 people who died in the tragic plane crash. May God give peace to the departed soul," Patil told reporters.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamline, carrying 242 passengers, crashed just after taking off from Ahmedabad airport between 1-2 pm. Of the 242 people on board the aircraft, 12 were from the airlines - 2 pilots and 10 cabin crew. The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar.

Offering deepest condolences to Rupani's family, former Punjab CM Capt. Amarinder Singh said, "Saddened by the tragic demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani Ji in the unfortunate plane crash near Ahmedabad. His unwavering commitment to public service will always be remembered. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones in this moment of grief," he posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Saddened by the tragic demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani Ji in the unfortunate plane crash near Ahmedabad.His unwavering commitment to public service will always be remembered.My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones in this moment of pic.twitter.com/Kbk2MGKXJT

Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) June 12, 2025

Air India confirmed there were 169 Indians, 53 British, one Canadian and seven Portuguese nationals onboard the ill-fated airline. The airline has set up a dedicated passenger hotline number 1800 5691 444 to provide more information.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Air India plane crash as 'heartbreaking beyond words'. He said he is in touch with ministers and other authorities who are working to assist those affected.

"The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected," he posted on X.

The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us. It is heartbreaking beyond words. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2025

Who was Vijay Rupani?

Rupani served as the 16th chief minister of the state from 2016 to 2021 for two terms. He started his career as a student activist associated with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and later joined Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Rupani was associated with the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) since its establishment.

Born in Myanmar’s Yangon, the former Gujarat CM was imprisoned for 11 months during the Emergency in 1976.

Rupani held several key positions during his long and illustrious political career - Mayor of Rajkot (1996-1997), Rajya Sabha MP (2006-2012), and state cabinet minister with transport, labour, and water supply portfolios. He was also a two-time MLA, representing Rajkot West.