Vijay Rupani: Gujarat’s Calm Force and a Tragic End in the Skies

🧠 Vijay Rupani, Gujarat’s 16th Chief Minister, led with humility and resilience through turbulent times. From his roots in Rajkot to his tragic death in an air crash on June 12, 2025, his legacy remains one of service, stability, and simplicity.

Introduction

Vijay Rupani’s journey from a migrant boy in Rajkot to Gujarat’s Chief Minister is a story of perseverance, discipline, and public service. Known for his calm demeanor and clean governance, Rupani remained a steady hand through some of the state’s most challenging years including the Patidar agitation and the COVID-19 crisis. Tragically, his untimely death in the Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, 2025, at the age of 68, shocked the nation. It also brought back memories of Gujarat’s earlier aviation tragedy that claimed another former CM, Balwantrai Mehta, in 1965.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 2, 1956, in Rangoon, Myanmar (then Burma), Vijay Rupani hailed from a Jain Bania family. Due to the growing political instability in Burma, his family moved to Rajkot, Gujarat, in 1960. There, he spent his formative years. He earned a Bachelor of Arts and later a Law degree, laying the academic foundation for his political future.

Political Rise: From ABVP to BJP Leadership

Rupani’s political involvement began in 1973 when he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s student wing, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Notably, he was arrested in 1975 during the Emergency for his protests against the curtailment of civil liberties. This event marked the beginning of a life deeply intertwined with Indian politics.

At just 24, he officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Over the years, he steadily climbed the political ladder:

• 1987: Became Municipal Councillor of Rajkot
• 1996: Appointed Mayor of Rajkot
• 2006–2012: Served as Rajya Sabha Member
• 2016: Took over as Gujarat BJP President

Thanks to his integrity and efficiency, Rupani earned trust across party lines. His calm demeanor, even during difficult times, made him a reliable leader.

Chief Minister of Gujarat (2016–2021)

Eventually, on August 7, 2016, Vijay Rupani assumed office as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat, succeeding Anandiben Patel. Unlike his predecessors, his tenure was marked not by flamboyance but by focused governance and steady leadership.

Importantly, he championed several key initiatives:

• Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020, aimed at boosting state-level investment and employment
• Seva Setu, which facilitated delivery of government services directly to citizens
• Smart City Projects, helping modernize urban infrastructure

Moreover, his ability to manage unrest during the Patidar reservation agitation and steer the state during the COVID-19 recovery was widely appreciated. Under his leadership, Gujarat stayed on the path of development while maintaining relative political stability.

When he resigned in September 2021, it was not under scandal or pressure. Instead, it was a graceful departure, consistent with his understated political style.

The Tragic Air India Crash of June 12, 2025

On June 12, 2025, tragedy struck. Vijay Rupani boarded Air India Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London. He was traveling in business class seat 12, reportedly either to visit his daughter or to bring back his wife, Anjali Rupani, a senior member of BJP’s women’s wing.

Soon after takeoff, the aircraft crashed near Ahmedabad. The accident resulted in the deaths of many passengers, while 105 were injured. Sadly, Rupani was among the deceased.

Coincidentally, this disaster echoed the 1965 crash that took the life of Gujarat’s second CM, Balwantrai Mehta. As a result, the event plunged the state into mourning once again.

Official Confirmation and National Mourning

Rupani’s death was officially confirmed by:

• Gujarat BJP Chief CR Patil
• Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu

Following the announcement, tributes poured in from across the country. Many political leaders, civil society members, and citizens remembered him as:

• A leader of rare integrity
• A man free from corruption allegations
• A humble servant of the people

Furthermore, numerous users on X (formerly Twitter) praised his quiet efficiency and commitment to public service. His passing created a significant void in Gujarat’s political fabric.

The Curious Connection with the Number 12

An unusual detail captured public attention Rupani’s repeated connection with the number 12:

• He was seated in seat 12
• The crash occurred on June 12
• He had previously been associated with vehicles bearing the number 12

Although coincidental, these alignments sparked speculation and reflection. To some, they added a mysterious undertone to his already remarkable story.

Public Mourning and Statewide Tributes

In response to the tragedy, the Gujarat government announced state mourning. Flags flew at half-mast. Candlelight vigils were held across cities, including Rajkot, Gandhinagar, and Ahmedabad.

Various institutions suspended operations to honor his memory. His funeral was attended by top leaders, civil servants, and thousands of admirers. As expected, the atmosphere was one of deep loss and reverence.

Final Reflections on His Legacy

In conclusion, Vijay Rupani’s legacy is defined not just by policy initiatives but by his style of leadership. He was a rare political figure unassuming, disciplined, and honest. From handling caste-based tensions to pandemic crises, he prioritized people over politics.

His death is not just a loss for Gujarat but a loss for India’s democratic ethos. Despite political changes, his contributions continue to guide future generations.

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Eternal Tribute

Above all, Vijay Rupani will be remembered not for theatrics, but for thoughtful leadership. While his end came tragically, his journey leaves behind a legacy of dignity, development, and deep public trust.