Tragic Air India Flight AI-171 Crash Claims Former Gujarat CM Vijaybhai Rupani
Devastating Loss in Aviation Disaster
New Delhi, June 13: The recent crash of Air India Flight AI-171 near Ahmedabad has resulted in the heartbreaking loss of 241 lives, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijaybhai Rupani. His family and friends are currently in profound grief.
Rupani, known for his approachable and empathetic demeanor, is being remembered fondly by those who knew him well.
A priest from a nearby temple shared, “I have known Vijaybhai for over five years. He was always willing to assist, whether it was community issues or temple-related matters. His kindness and respect for everyone were remarkable. I have prayed for his soul’s peace.”
A long-serving domestic staff member at Rupani's home expressed deep sorrow, stating, “He treated everyone with equality, regardless of their background. To me, he was like an elder brother, guiding us as a senior family member. His absence has created an irreplaceable void.”
Another staff member reflected, "Having worked with Vijaybhai for 25 years, I can say he was a truly good man who treated me like family. I regarded him as an elder brother and respected him more than my own family. He supported me in every aspect, from work to my children's education."
Following the incident, Rupani’s wife, Anjali Rupani, arrived at Ahmedabad Airport, where she was greeted by Gujarat State Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi, who offered support on behalf of the state government.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was headed to London Gatwick, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, marking one of the most devastating aviation disasters in India’s history, with 241 fatalities out of 242 passengers on board.
Eyewitness Jairam, who observed the incident from approximately two kilometers away, recounted, “We suddenly noticed smoke billowing into the sky. It was quite high. As we rushed to the scene, we saw flames. The flight had crashed, and many people were on board.”
DNA sampling for identifying the victims has commenced at Kasauti Bhavan, BJ Medical College, as families await official confirmation regarding their loved ones.