Political leaders from across India reacted with shock and sorrow after an Air India flight (AI-171) to London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said he was “shocked and devastated,” adding that he is personally monitoring the situation. He confirmed that all agencies have been instructed to respond swiftly.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed deep sadness and said rescue operations were underway. He directed officials to prioritise medical treatment for the injured and confirmed that a green corridor was being arranged for emergency transport. Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured full central support, including the deployment of NDRF teams.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called the incident “tragic” and said she was praying for survivors.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav demanded immediate clarification on the cause of the crash and urged the government to provide top-level rescue and medical efforts.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia both expressed shock, offering prayers for the safety of those onboard.
Other leaders, including Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, also voiced concern and solidarity with the victims and their families.
The flight, commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar, gave a distress call to ATC shortly after departing from runway 23 but lost contact soon after. A full probe has been ordered, and rescue operations are still ongoing. Officials have not yet confirmed casualty figures.
