The tragic Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences from top leaders across the nation. The incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff on Thursday, June 12, 2025, involved a Boeing 787-8 aircraft en route to London Gatwick.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his profound sorrow, stating he was "pained beyond words" by the devastating event. In a swift response, Shah confirmed that disaster response forces were immediately mobilized and dispatched to the crash site. He also engaged in discussions with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and Ahmedabad's Commissioner of Police to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts. Shah assured that the central government would provide all necessary assistance to the state.
Echoing the sentiment, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed his deep anguish over the tragic loss of life. "Deeply anguished by the news of the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad," he wrote, extending his thoughts and prayers to the bereaved families of the passengers and crew.
The news of the crash has reverberated throughout the government. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu described himself as "shocked and devastated" and said he was personally monitoring the situation. He added that all agencies have been directed to respond swiftly. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his shock and offered prayers for the passengers and their families. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also conveyed her anguish and prayers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Amit Shah and Ram Mohan Naidu, instructing them to travel to Ahmedabad to ensure that every possible form of support is extended to those affected by the tragedy.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has directed officials to prioritize immediate rescue and relief operations, ensuring that injured passengers receive prompt medical treatment.
Political figures beyond the ruling party have also expressed their condolences. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said he was "absolutely shocked" and described the visuals as "heart-wrenching." West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called the plane crash "tragic" and said she was praying for survivors.
In addition to government bodies, multiple agencies are involved in relief operations at the crash site. The Disaster Management Team of Western Railway is providing full support, coordinating closely with the state government. Western Railway's medical team and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel have also been deployed to assist in the rescue efforts.
The Air India flight AI171, carrying 242 people including passengers and crew, departed from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. According to initial reports, the passengers included 169 Indian nationals and 53 British nationals. The airport itself was recently redeveloped under a project financed by Adani Ahmedabad International Airport Limited (AAIAL).
