Did Vijay Rupani Have a Deep Connection with PM Modi Since Their Early BJP Days in Gujarat?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vijay Rupani was a significant figure in Gujarat politics.
- He shared a deep bond with PM Modi.
- Rupani's political journey began in 1987.
- He served as Chief Minister of Gujarat starting in 2016.
- His contributions to the BJP were noteworthy.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) The devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad resulted in the tragic loss of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, leaving the political community in disbelief. The flight, which was headed to London from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, had 242 individuals aboard, with only one survivor from the ill-fated journey.
Vijay Rupani, a prominent figure in Gujarat's political landscape, initiated his career as a corporator in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation in 1987. Rising from modest beginnings, he held various key positions including the Mayor of Rajkot, a Rajya Sabha MP, President of the Gujarat BJP, Cabinet Minister, and ultimately became the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2016.
Beyond his political achievements, the late Rupani shared a significant and enduring relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, forged during their collaborative efforts to fortify the BJP in Gujarat.
The popular social media account 'Modi Story' on X shared a video clip featuring Rupani reminiscing about their strong camaraderie and political journey.
The post stated: “Vijay Rupani shared a profound bond with PM Narendra Modi. Their history traces back to the early days of enhancing the Gujarat BJP together. When Modi ji ascended as Chief Minister, they continued to reshape a new Gujarat. Rupani ji made noteworthy contributions during his own tenure as CM.”
In the video, Rupani affectionately recalled the time when Narendra Modi ran for his initial election from the Rajkot constituency.
“I was in charge of managing that election, overseeing every detail,” he reminisced.
“It was Narendra Bhai’s first campaign. Amit Bhai (Union Home Minister Amit Shah) also came to Rajkot and stayed for a month to collaborate with me. We handled everything together.”
He shared an insightful story about PM Narendra Modi’s meticulous approach.
“Daily, Modi ji would call from Gandhinagar, inquiring about even the tiniest details. I once remarked to Amit Bhai, ‘Why is he worrying about such minor matters?’ Amit Bhai responded with a beautiful analogy: ‘When a tailor prepares for his own wedding, he meticulously checks each stitch on his coat. Modi ji has assisted many in elections. Now, for the first time, he’s contesting himself — naturally, every detail is crucial.’”
Rupani stressed how Narendra Modi’s attentiveness to details influenced their election strategy.
“He directed us with those vital specifics. We executed the plan.”
On June 13, Prime Minister Modi visited Vijay Rupani’s family to express his condolences regarding the leader’s passing.
He later shared on X: “Visited the family of Shri Vijaybhai Rupani. It is hard to believe that Vijaybhai is no longer with us. I have known him for many years — we worked together even during challenging times. He was humble, diligent, and deeply committed to the party’s principles.”
Rupani’s demise marks the conclusion of a significant chapter, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to Gujarat and the nation.