Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Onboard Crashed AI171 – Net Worth, Political Legacy & What We Know About His Whereabouts

Ahmedabad, India, June 12, 2025 – The crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, in Ahmedabad has sparked widespread concern, with reports suggesting former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the 242 passengers. As rescue teams work tirelessly, questions swirl about his safety and his enduring legacy. Here’s what we know about this unfolding tragedy.

Rupani’s Possible Presence on the Flight

Reports are uncertain:

• Vijay Rupani, former Gujarat CM, is believed to have been on Flight AI171, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on June 12.
• Sources say he was traveling in business class, listed as passenger number 12, after attending an NRI event in London, not Dubai.
• His name is absent from early survivor lists, and his family has not issued a statement.

The lack of confirmation fuels anxiety.

His Political Journey

Rupani’s career is notable:

• He served as Gujarat’s Chief Minister from August 2016 to September 2021, a key figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party.
• He navigated challenges like the 2017 Patidar protests and Gujarat’s COVID-19 response, earning praise and criticism.
• After stepping down, he handed leadership to Bhupendra Patel and remains a national executive member.

His tenure shaped Gujarat’s political landscape.

Net Worth and Assets

Rupani’s finances are modest:

• His 2024 net worth is estimated at ₹10 crore, including a home in Ahmedabad and farmland in Rajkot.
• Income comes from an MLA pension, speaking engagements, and royalties from his writings.
• A supporter said, “Rupani’s wealth is his service, not money.”

His simplicity resonates with many.

Reactions Across India

Leaders are responding:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted, “My heart goes out to all affected by the Ahmedabad crash.”
• Gujarat BJP leaders are at the crash site, aiding rescue efforts in Meghani Nagar.
• Opposition voices, like West Bengal’s Mamata Banerjee, urged a national aviation safety review.

The tragedy unites political rivals in concern.

Rupani’s Recent Moves

He stayed active:

• Rupani was in London for an NRI investor summit, speaking on Gujarat’s growth.
• He planned to launch a book, “Gujarat’s Next Decade,” in July 2025.
• As a BJP strategist, he advised on upcoming state campaigns.

His work kept him in the spotlight.

How to Check His Status

Families seek answers:

• Air India’s helpline (1800-5691-444) offers updates on passengers.
• Gujarat BJP’s office in Gandhinagar (079-232-57777) is fielding inquiries.
• An X post read, “Praying for Rupani and all on AI171—stay strong, Gujarat.”

Official channels are the best source for news.

What Happens Next

The situation is fluid:

• Rescue operations continue in Meghani Nagar, hampered by fire from the plane’s fuel load.
• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is probing the crash, with Boeing’s help.
• Clarity on Rupani’s fate awaits black box data and survivor accounts.

India holds its breath for answers.