Rajkot: Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is being given a farewell in Rajkot, as thousands of people line up the rain-soaked streets to pay their last respects. The funeral procession began from him home near Nirmala Road and has reached at Astron Chowk and moved through key parts of the city, reaching Kotecha Chowk, where citizens showered rose petals on his mortal remains.
Rupani, who served as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2016 to 2021, tragically lost his life in the Air India Flight AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad on June 12. His body was identified through DNA testing and transported to his hometown for the final rites.
Despite the steady rainfall, mourners flooded the streets, chanting “Vijaybhai Amar Raho”, reflecting the deep connection he shared with the people of Rajkot. A strong police presence ensured tight security during the emotional procession.
Rupani was also accorded with a ceremonial Guard of Honour, in recognition of his decades of service to Gujarat. A ceremonial Guard of Honour was arranged, with senior political leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attending the proceedings earlier in the day.
The final rites are expected to take place shortly in Rajkot at Ramnathpara crematorium, marking the end of an era in Gujarat’s political landscape.