“Entire Nation Grieves Air India Tragedy, PM Modi Monitoring Relief Efforts” ~ Amit Shah

Image Source : @AmitShah on X

Dated 12th June 2025

News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid

Editor in Chief

Ahmedabad | June 12, 2025 | Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah addressed the media in Ahmedabad after visiting the plane crash site following the tragic crash of Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft Flight number AI 171. The flight met with an accident shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad today afternoon. The aircraft, bound for London, plunged into the Meghani area of the city in which several passengers are feared dead. 169 Indians, 53 British Nationals, 7 portuguese and 1 Canadian national were on board. Expressing deep sorrow, Amit Shah said the entire nation is shocked and grieving together.

He offered heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India and the Ministry of Home Affairs to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Ahmedabad tomorrow and visit site of Air India plane crash site, according to sources.

Image Source : @AmitShah on X

Amit Shah said the government was alerted within ten minutes of the incident. “I immediately contacted the Chief Minister of Gujarat, the state Home Minister, control rooms, Civil Aviation officials and the Union Civil Aviation Minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also called instantly. Both the Centre and the Gujarat government began rescue and relief work without any delay,” he stated.

According to initial information, the aircraft was carrying 230 passengers, including both Indian and foreign nationals, along with 12 crew members. Amit Shah confirmed that one passenger Viswash Kumar Ramesh survived and he personally met the survivor. He was seating on 11A of the ill-fated Boeing 787 Dreamliner and survived the crash miraculously.

In his post on X, Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared the pictures and wrote “Visited the hospital and met with the people injured in the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. Spoke with the affected family members and assured them of every possible support required for the swift recovery of the injured. Also discussed with the doctors about their present health conditions.”

Images Source : @AmitShah on X

“Due to nearly 1.25 lakh litres of fuel in the aircraft and high temperatures after the crash, unfortunately, there was very little chance for rescue,” he said.

Amit Shah informed that the rescue teams, including Gujarat’s health, fire, police departments and others acted swiftly. Most of the bodies have now been recovered.

The authorities are conducting DNA testing to identify the deceased. Amit Shah said Gujarat has full capacity to carry out the DNA tests needed and there is no need to send samples outside the state. Gujarat’s Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the National Forensic Sciences University are working together to complete the identification process as soon as possible.

‘The government is also providing trauma support to the injured and affected family members. A review meeting was held to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place. The Civil Aviation Ministry has begun a detailed inquiry into the cause of the accident. Instructions have been given to conduct a fast and thorough investigation.’ he added.

Union Home Minister thanked all agencies involved in rescue and relief work. “Once again, I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who lost their loved ones.” Amit Shah said.

He concluded by expressing condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India and the Gujarat Government to all the bereaved families.

In this difficult time, the Government of India and the Gujarat State Government have assured every possible support to the victims’ families. The quick response by disaster teams and coordination between different departments shows the seriousness and readiness of the administration. As the investigation continues, the nation stands united in grief and prays for strength to the families who have lost their loved ones in this heartbreaking tragedy.