Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was cremated with full state honours on Monday evening in Rajkot. The ceremony was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and several other senior leaders.
Passed Away in Ahmedabad Plane Crash
On June 12, Vijay Rupani tragically lost his life in an Air India plane crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. The flight, en route to London, was carrying 242 passengers and crew, of whom 241 lost their lives, including Rupani.
Thousands Gather for Final Darshan
A large crowd gathered in Rajkot to pay their last respects. His mortal remains were brought from the airport to his residence, with people lining both sides of the road to bid farewell. The body was transported in a flower-decorated vehicle, and supporters showered petals and chanted slogans in his memory.
Senior Leaders Offer Floral Tributes
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Jal Shakti Minister and Gujarat BJP President C.R. Paatil, Governor Acharya Devvrat, CM Bhupendra Patel, and other senior BJP leaders offered floral tributes at Rupani’s residence. The funeral procession later moved to the crematorium, where the final rites were performed in the presence of dignitaries.
Amit Shah’s Emotional Tribute
“Paid my last respects to Vijay Bhai Rupani ji in Rajkot today. From party organization to government, he remained completely dedicated to the ideology throughout his life. Losing a disciplined and devoted colleague like him is a personal loss to me and to the BJP family. Though he is no longer among us, his memory will always live in our hearts. I pray to Somnath Dada to grant peace to his noble soul and strength to the grieving family to bear this loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.”
Identification Through DNA Matching
Vijay Rupani’s body was severely burned in the crash, making identification difficult. DNA samples from his relatives were used to confirm his identity on Sunday.
A Remarkable Political Journey
Rupani served as Gujarat’s Chief Minister from August 2016 to September 2021. Known for his dedication and simplicity, his untimely death has left a deep void in the political and social landscape.
