On June 12, 2025, a tragic plane crash occurred while an Air India flight was travelling from Ahmedabad to London. Among the victims was Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat. His untimely death has cast a shadow of grief over the entire state. Following this, the Gujarat government has announced a day of state mourning on June 16, 2025.
The state mourning will be observed across Gujarat. On this day, all government buildings will fly the national flag at half-mast. Additionally, there will be no official entertainment events scheduled. The last rites for Vijay Rupani will take place in Rajkot on the same day.
Vijay Rupani was a prominent politician in India, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He served as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat, taking office on August 7, 2016. Before becoming Chief Minister, he held several key positions, including the party’s state president.
Born on August 2, 1956, in Rangoon, Burma, Rupani moved to India with his family in 1960. They settled in Rajkot, Gujarat. He graduated from Dharmendra Singh Mahavidyalaya and later obtained a law degree from Saurashtra University. Rupani was actively involved in student politics and joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a Hindu nationalist volunteer organization.
Throughout his political career, Rupani faced many challenges. He was imprisoned for 11 months during the Emergency period in India in the 1970s. His political journey began in earnest in 1971 when he joined the BJP. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, serving as a member of the Rajkot Municipal Corporation and later as the Mayor of Rajkot.
Rupani’s political acumen earned him leadership roles in various committees and he eventually became the party’s state president in 2014. His tenure as Chief Minister was marked by his focus on development and governance. He resigned from the position on September 11, 2021, but remained active in politics as the BJP’s Punjab in-charge.
The plane crash that claimed his life has left many in shock. Reports indicate that Rupani was on his way to London to visit his daughter. His journey was delayed twice, once due to personal reasons and again because of political commitments in Punjab. Tragically, he took his flight on June 12, just days before he was set to meet family.
The impact of his death is felt deeply across Gujarat. Leaders from various political parties have expressed their condolences. The BJP’s senior leaders have spoken about Rupani’s dedication to public service and his contributions to the state.
As the state prepares to honour his memory with mourning, it is important to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind. His commitment to the people of Gujarat and his role in shaping the state’s future will be remembered. The upcoming days will bring tributes and remembrances from those whose lives he touched during his time in office.
In conclusion, Vijay Rupani’s death is a significant loss for Gujarat. His legacy will continue to inspire many in the political arena and beyond. The state will come together to mourn, showing solidarity in this time of sorrow. The national flag will fly at half-mast, a symbol of respect for a leader who dedicated his life to serving the people.