There was an outpouring of grief and anguish among the British Indian diaspora as messages of support and prayers poured in from all quarters of UK following the tragic London Gatwick bound Air India Flight 171 crash soon after take-off from Ahmedabad Airport on June 12.
The National Council of Gujarati Organisations (NCGO) UK said the Gujarati and wider Indian communities across the United Kingdom and around the world are united in grief over this unimaginable loss.
“On behalf of the NCGO UK, we extend our deepest condolences to all the bereaved families. We are actively working with community organisations, temples, and the High Commission of India to offer support to those impacted. A community vigil is being planned in the coming days to bring people together in prayer, remembrance, and solidarity,” it said.
Vimalji Odedra, President of NCGO UK, added: “Our entire community is mourning. We are devastated by the tragic loss of life and stand with the grieving families at this most difficult time. As a community, we will continue to offer strength, unity, and support wherever it is needed.”
The Indian National Students’ Association UK said: “INSA UK stands in full solidarity and is available for any assistance or information to those impacted by this incident.
“Let us keep all affected in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We’re here for you.”
C.B. Patel, a veteran diaspora leader who was among those who led the campaign for direct flights connecting Gujarat with the UK back in 2015, expressed his deep anguish and shock.
“My heart goes out to the family of those who lost their loved ones. I am particularly heartbroken by the untimely demise of my friend, (former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani). I will always remember the warmth, humility, and wisdom he brought with him; my heartfelt condolences to his wife, daughter, family, friends, and all those who admired him,” he said.
The High Commission of India in London cancelled a planned event with the Indian women’s hockey team in London as news of the crash emerged.
“Following the tragic accident involving Air India Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick, next of kin or relatives of any passengers on board can contact the High Commission on our emergency number 07768765035 with regard to emergency visa assistance to travel to India if needed,” it said.
King Charles was among those to issue messages of support ahead of the incident being addressed in the UK Parliament.
The King said: "Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones.
"I would like to pay a particular tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services and all those providing help and support at this most heartbreaking and traumatic time."
In an urgent statement in the House of Commons, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy noted that British nationals were on board the aircraft which was carrying 242 passengers and crew. While the minister did not specify any numbers in Parliament, it has been reported that 53 of the passengers on board were British nationals.
“My thoughts and I’m sure those of the entire House are with those who have been affected by the tragic plane crash in India this morning,” Lammy told MPs.
“We know that British nationals were on board and I can confirm that the FCDO [Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office] is working urgently with local authorities to support British nationals and their families, and has stood up a crisis team in both Delhi and in London,” he said.
It was followed by several members of Parliament from across party lines expressing their shock and support in the Commons.
“As co-chair of the India All-Party Parliamentary Group, may I express my condolences to the families affected both in this country and in India. I cannot imagine what they are going through, and I thank the Leader of the House for offering her support and the support of this government,” said British Indian Labour MP Jeevun Sandher.
