Rajkot, June 14, 2025 — In a heartfelt tribute to former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, all government and private schools in Rajkot will remain closed tomorrow, the district administration announced late Friday evening. This closure comes as the entire state mourns the untimely demise of Rupani in the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday.
Why Are Rajkot Schools Closed?
The decision to declare a holiday for schools was taken to honor the memory of Vijay Rupani, a towering political figure who was especially beloved in Rajkot, his home constituency. The administration has also urged all educational institutions to observe a two-minute silence in remembrance of the late leader.
Air India Crash: What Happened?
On Thursday afternoon, an Air India flight bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. Among the 241 passengers on board was Vijay Rupani, who tragically lost his life in the incident. The horrifying crash has left Gujarat and the entire country in deep shock and grief.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Tribute
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally visited the crash site in Ahmedabad on Friday, meeting victims undergoing treatment at Civil Hospital. In an emotional gesture, PM Modi also visited Rupani’s family at the GujSail building near the airport, offering heartfelt condolences.
“It is unimaginable that Vijaybhai is not in our midst. I’ve known him for decades. We worked together, shoulder to shoulder, including during some of the most challenging times,” PM Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Vijay Rupani: A Life Dedicated to Gujarat’s Progress
Vijay Rupani, aged 68, was a leader known for his humility, hard work, and firm commitment to BJP’s ideology. His political career spanned decades—from Rajkot Municipal Corporation to the Rajya Sabha, from serving as Gujarat BJP President to becoming the Chief Minister of Gujarat between 2016 to 2021.
During his tenure, Rupani spearheaded several development projects aimed at improving governance, infrastructure, and the quality of life for citizens. Even after stepping down as CM, he continued to serve the party at the national level as BJP’s in-charge for Punjab.
Rajkot Mourns Its Beloved Son
Rajkot, the city where Rupani began his political career, has been plunged into mourning. Emotional tributes have poured in from all quarters—political leaders, local citizens, and party workers—remembering him for his calm demeanor, administrative clarity, and grassroots connect.
Nation in Mourning
As the investigation into the Air India crash continues, condolences continue to flood in from across India’s political spectrum. The loss of Vijay Rupani marks the end of a remarkable political journey that began from Rajkot’s lanes and reached the heights of Gujarat’s governance.
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