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**Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Feared Dead in Air India Crash; Over 200 Casualties Confirmed**

**Ahmedabad, India** – A pall of grief has fallen over Gujarat as reports indicate former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was among the 242 passengers aboard Air India flight AI171, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon.

The flight, bound for London, reportedly sent a ‘Mayday’ signal before plummeting to the ground in the Meghaninagar area, just five minutes after departure. A massive fire erupted upon impact, engulfing the aircraft in flames and dense black smoke.

Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik has confirmed that the death toll has already surpassed 200. Rescue operations are ongoing, but hopes of finding survivors are dwindling.

Initial reports suggest the aircraft experienced a severe technical malfunction immediately after takeoff. Communication between the pilot and Air Traffic Control was lost before the crash.

While the passenger manifest reportedly lists Vijay Rupani in seat 2D, there has been no official confirmation from the government or his family regarding his fate. The news has sent shockwaves through the political establishment and the state of Gujarat.

Vijay Rupani, 68, served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2016 to 2021. A veteran politician known for his calm demeanor and organizational skills, he previously served as the Mayor of Rajkot, a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly representing Rajkot West. His unexpected rise to the Chief Minister’s office followed the resignation of Anandiben Patel.

Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the tragic Air India crash. The focus remains on the ongoing recovery efforts and providing support to the families of the victims.

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