12 Jun, 2025
Supreme Court, CJI Extend Condolences After Ahmedabad Air India Crash
Date: 12 June 2025
Location: New Delhi / Ahmedabad
In a solemn statement today, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and the full complement of Supreme Court judges conveyed their heartfelt condolences for the victims of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad. The tragedy, involving a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with 242 souls on board, struck shortly after takeoff around 1:38 p.m. IST, claiming numerous lives and devastating a residential zone in Meghani Nagar.
In its official release, the Supreme Court expressed deep sorrow and solidarity for:
- Families and friends of the victims, especially those admitted at B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad;
- Residents of Meghani Nagar, where the crash occurred;
- First responders, including firefighters, police, NDRF and BSF teams, who have been working under arduous conditions to conduct rescue and relief operations .
CJI invoked national empathy, stating: “We stand with all those affected during this difficult time. May they find strength and solace.”
Crash Overview & Response
Flight AI‑171 Details:
- Departed Ahmedabad for Gatwick at 1:38 p.m. with 242 people (230 passengers, 12 crew).
- Struck 5 minutes post-takeoff into Meghani Nagar, triggering a massive blaze due to full fuel tanks.
Rescue Operations:
- Six NDRF and two BSF teams, along with CISF, local police and fire services, mobilized quickly .
- Ahmedabad airport operations remain suspended pending site clearance.
- Survivors and casualties were rushed to local hospitals for critical care.
Institutional & National Reactions
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the crash as “heartbreaking beyond words” and expressed grief and support .
- President Droupadi Murmu labeled it a “heart‑rending disaster,” while Home Minister Amit Shah said he was “pained beyond words”.
- Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran confirmed the airline has set up emergency support centres for families.
Global Concern & Investigation
- The crash marks the first-ever fatal accident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, drawing scrutiny to the aircraft’s safety mechanisms.
- Boeing, alongside the Indian DGCA and AAIB, launched formal investigations into potential mechanical and procedural causes.
- International leaders, including UK PM Keir Starmer and EU figures, have offered support and condolences.
Why This Matters
- The Supreme Court’s solidarity underscores the national gravity of the incident and the judiciary’s recognition of widespread trauma.
- With emergency responders and hospitals overwhelmed, the judiciary’s message brings a measure of comfort and validation.
- As inquiries progress, judicial bodies like the Supreme Court may follow up to ensure transparency and accountability in safety protocols and investigative outcomes.
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