Subscribe

0

NATION PEOPLE

Vijay Rupani’s Last Journey at Rajkot, HM Amit Shah, Gujarat CM Pay Last Respects

Vijay Rupani who died in the AI 171 crash that killed 242, will be remembered for his service to Gujarat. The flight to London crashed 5 minutes after takeoff from Ahmedabad. His funeral will begin from Rupani's residence at 5-6 pm with full state honors.

author-image
Purnima Jain
New Update
Vijay-Rupani

Photograph: (Google)

Tragically, Vijay Rupani, former state Gujarat Chief Minister and senior BJP figure, was killed in the Air India Flight 171 crash. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was lost just a few moments into its journey from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, on Thursday afternoon with 242 passengers on board and no survivors. 

Final Journey to London Cut Short

Rupani, 68, was traveling to London for a family matter when his unexpected death shocked the political landscape of Gujarat and the wider country. DNA identification was completed late Friday night and Rupani's remains were returned to Rajkot (his hometown) on Saturday.

City Comes to a Standstill in Mourning

As Rupani's body came to Rajkot, the entire city came to a respectful standstill. The streets were lined with Godabadis who came to pay their respects and honor Rupani as large security contingents managed crowds of mourners and well-wishers. A public viewing was held at his residence, where thousands of supporters, well-wishers and townsfolk stood in silence and paid their final respects. 

Tributes from Across the Nation

Political leaders across all parties have offered their respects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Rupani's death a "personal loss": "He was not only a colleague but a friend and contributed to the development of Gujarat.". Others offering condolences included President Droupadi Murmu; Union Home Minister Amit Shah; Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel; and many more. 

State Mourning Declared in Gujarat

The Ahmedabad government have declared a day of state mourning. The national flag will be lowered to half-mast, sporting engagements will all be postponed or canceled. Political and religious leaders joined family and citizens in Rajkot to commemorate the former CM who began his political career as an RSS worker before serving Gujarat as its CM from 2016-2021. 

Funeral with Full State Honors

The funeral arrangements for Rupani will take place at Aji Dam crematorium and hold all associated state honors. The people of Gujarat will remember his contributions to the growth of the state, his calmness, and principled leadership across political dispositions. 

Investigation Underway into Crash Cause

There are preliminary investigations about the crash, with a suspected technical failure shortly after take-off. An in-depth investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun, and a Boeing technical team is also anticipated to help with the investigation. 

Legacy of Leadership and Integrity

Vijay Rupani's legacy will live on in the reflections of a leader that was committed to development, transparency, and integrity above all else. As Rajkot prepares to say goodbye for the last time, its residents will reflect not only on a terrible loss—but a life of public service and meaningful impact.

 

Vijay rupani