JUNE 13: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today expressed deep sorrow over the untimely passing of Shri Vijay Rupani, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, who tragically lost his life in the Ahmedabad air disaster.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to his longtime associate and colleague, reminiscing about their decades-long association and Shri Rupani’s unwavering dedication to public service and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
“It is hard to fathom that Vijaybhai is no longer with us,” the Prime Minister wrote, adding that he had met with Shri Rupani’s family to offer his condolences personally. He recalled their years of working together, even during testing times, and described Shri Rupani as a humble, diligent, and principled leader who rose through the ranks of the party with determination and sincerity.
Shri Modi highlighted the various roles Shri Rupani held throughout his public life — starting from the Rajkot Municipal Corporation, moving on to serve as a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, as Gujarat BJP President, and later as a Cabinet Minister in the state government. Each position, the Prime Minister noted, was marked by Rupani’s dedication and effectiveness.
During his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Rupani introduced several initiatives that contributed significantly to the state’s development, especially in areas that improved the ‘Ease of Living’ for its citizens. Prime Minister Modi remarked that he would always value the numerous conversations and collaborative efforts they shared during that period.
Calling the loss a personal and national tragedy, the Prime Minister offered his prayers for strength to the bereaved family and conveyed his heartfelt condolences.
“Om Shanti,” he concluded, reflecting the collective grief of a nation mourning a dedicated public servant.
Shri Vijay Rupani’s death marks the end of a remarkable journey of public life rooted in commitment, service, and integrity — leaving behind a lasting legacy in Gujarat’s political and developmental landscape.