The city of Rajkot and the state of Gujarat are in mourning as the final preparations are underway for the funeral of former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Rupani, aged 68, tragically died in the Air India Flight 171 crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The Gujarat government has announced that his last rites will be conducted today with full state honors, coinciding with a day of state mourning to honor the former leader.
The devastating plane crash, involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London's Gatwick Airport, claimed the lives of all but one of the 242 passengers and crew members on board. Additionally, the crash into a doctors' hostel at BJ Medical College resulted in fatalities on the ground, bringing the total death toll to 274. The magnitude of the disaster has prompted extensive efforts for victim identification, with forensic experts working diligently to match DNA samples from relatives.
On Sunday, authorities confirmed the identification of Vijay Rupani through DNA testing. Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel communicated the news to Rupani's family, ensuring them of the government's full support in facilitating the funeral arrangements. The mortal remains of the former Chief Minister were handed over to his family. They were then transported to Rajkot, where the funeral procession and last rites are scheduled.
Vijay Rupani's political journey was marked by dedication and service to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the people of Gujarat. Born in Rangoon, Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar), Rupani's family returned to India in 1960. He began his political career with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later joined the Jan Sangh, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the BJP.
Rupani's career included being elected as a Rajkot Municipal Councillor in 1987, serving as the Mayor of Rajkot from 1996 to 1997, and representing Gujarat in the Rajya Sabha from 2006 to 2012. His influence grew when he was elected to the Gujarat Legislative Assembly in 2014 and subsequently served as a cabinet minister in the Anandiben Patel government, holding portfolios such as Transport, Water Supply, Labour, and Employment.
He assumed the office of Chief Minister on August 7, 2016, succeeding Anandiben Patel, and continued in the role until September 2021. During his tenure, Rupani focused on infrastructure development, e-governance, and industry-friendly policies. He led the BJP to victory in the 2017 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections, solidifying the party's position in the state.
Despite his contributions, Rupani faced criticism during his time as Chief Minister, particularly for his government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Gujarat High Court remarked that the government's response to the crisis was "not satisfactory and not transparent." Ultimately, Rupani resigned from his post in September 2021 and was succeeded by Bhupendra Patel.
Vijay Rupani's death has been widely mourned across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, acknowledging Rupani's humble nature, hard work, and commitment to the BJP's ideology. Condolences have poured in from leaders of various parties, recognizing his contributions to Gujarat's political landscape.
As Gujarat observes a day of state mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings, and official entertainment events will be canceled. The funeral in Rajkot is expected to be attended by numerous dignitaries, party members, and supporters, all paying their final respects to a leader who dedicated his life to public service. Vijay Rupani is survived by his wife, Anjali, his son Rushabh, and his daughter Radhika. His legacy will be remembered through his contributions to the development of Gujarat and his long-standing commitment to the BJP.
