Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Dies in Air India Flight Crash

India was struck with grief on June 12, 2025, as former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, aged 69, tragically died in the Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad. The ill-fated flight was headed to London, where Rupani was to reunite with his family. His death marks a significant loss for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian political life, with tributes pouring in from across the country.

Why in News?

The tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12 claimed the lives of all 242 passengers, including senior BJP leader and former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani. His sudden demise has shocked the political fraternity and sparked a wave of mourning and condolences. His prominent role in Gujarat’s politics and BJP’s national structure underscores the loss to public service.

Profile of Vijay Rupani

• Born: 1956 in Yangon, Myanmar
• Moved to Rajkot, Gujarat, in childhood.
• Education: Law graduate from University of Saurashtra
• Political Ideology: Associated with RSS and ABVP; joined BJP at inception

Political Journey

• Jailed during Emergency in 1976 for activism

Rose through BJP ranks as,

• Corporator in Rajkot
• General Secretary, Gujarat BJP (1990s)
• Rajya Sabha MP: 2006–2012
• MLA from Rajkot West (2014 bypoll)
• Minister in Anandiben Patel govt (2014–2016)

Chief Minister of Gujarat

• First Term: 2016–2017
• Second Term: 2017–2021
• Stepped down in 2021 ahead of 2022 elections
• Later appointed National Vice President of BJP
• In charge of Punjab and Chandigarh

Legacy and Significance

• Known for his soft-spoken, calm demeanor

Guided Gujarat during critical periods such as,

• Aftermath of the Patidar agitation
• Continuation of Gujarat’s development agenda
• Close aide to BJP’s national leadership
• Seen as a bridge between the grassroots and high command

Tributes and Reactions

• Union Minister C.R. Paatil called it a “deep loss to BJP family”
• BJP Punjab President Sunil Jakhar mourned him as a “gentleman politician”
• National leaders and party members expressed shock and condolences across platforms