The funeral and memorial service expenses for former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani amounted to approximately ₹20 lakh, which were borne by the Rupani family themselves. According to reports, the BJP refused to cover these costs.
Gujarat News: Following the tragic plane crash in June 2025 that claimed the life of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, his funeral procession and memorial service were organized in Rajkot. Thousands of people gathered to bid him a final farewell, but a controversy has now erupted over the expenses incurred for these events. The family claims they had to bear the cost of around ₹20 lakh, while receiving no assistance from the party.
Rupani's Death in Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Vijay Rupani passed away in a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad in June 2025. This news sent waves of grief across Gujarat, with people from various political parties to the general public expressing deep sorrow over his demise.
His funeral procession was held in Rajkot, where thousands participated. A large-scale memorial service was also organized. However, the controversy that has now surfaced regarding the expenses of the funeral and the memorial service has become a topic of discussion in political circles.
Family Alleges Party Did Not Bear Expenses
The former Chief Minister's wife, Anjali Rupani, stated that her husband served the party and the organization until his last breath. Therefore, it was expected that the party would cover all the expenses for his funeral procession and memorial service.
She expressed her dismay that, contrary to expectations, the entire burden was placed on the family. Anjali Rupani said that this situation is extremely unfortunate and has caused her deep pain.
C.R. Patil Hints at Investigation
Following the escalation of the controversy, Gujarat BJP President and Union Minister C.R. Patil announced that he would investigate the matter and gather detailed information from the party. He acknowledged Vijay Rupani's significant contributions to the party and the state, and stated that such a controversy is unwarranted.
Patil asserted that a clear response from the party is necessary to explain why the financial burden was placed on the family. He assured that the matter would be investigated thoroughly.
Family Paid ₹20 Lakh, Opposition Attacks
According to sources, the Rupani family themselves paid approximately ₹20 lakh for expenses related to the funeral procession and memorial service. No official statement has been issued by the BJP so far explaining why the costs were left to the family.
Leveraging this issue, the opposition has intensified its attack on the BJP. The Congress and other parties have termed this an example of disrespect towards a former Chief Minister. They argue that this controversy could cause significant damage to the BJP's image.