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Indian diaspora bodies mourn victims of Ahmedabad plane crash

The London-bound aircraft was carrying 242 people including 217 adults and 11 children.

Indiaspora, Federation of Indian Associations, NFIA, Indian Overseas Congress USA, IA Impact / Official Logo

Indian American organisations across the United States have expressed shock and deep condolences following the crash of Air India Flight AI171, which went down shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12. 

The London-bound aircraft was carrying 242 people, including 217 adults and 11 children. Of these, 169 were Indian nationals, 53 were Britons, seven were Portuguese, and one was Canadian.

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) NY-NJ-NE), one of largest community bodies in the U.S., said, “We are deeply saddened to hear about the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Our thoughts and heartfelt prayers go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this devastating incident.”



Indiaspora, a U.S.-based nonprofit that mobilizes the global Indian diaspora for impact, wrote, “Indiaspora is heartbroken by the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished in this devastating accident.”

“This tragedy resonates deeply within our community, as many of our members and staff have personal connections to the affected region. In this time of grief, we stand united with our community and with India as we mourn together and support one another. We will share information about how the global Indian diaspora can support relief efforts as details become available,” it added.



The Indian American Impact (IA Impact), which advocates for Indian American civic engagement, wrote, “Our hearts are with the victims and families affected by this horrific tragedy.”



Sunny Gabhawala, president, and Raj Razdan, chairperson of the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA), acknowledged the magnitude of the tragedy and expressed their condolences.  “We at NFIA are deeply saddened by the tragic news of Air India Flight AI171 crashing just after takeoff from Ahmedabad, killing all but one of the 242 aboard. Our heart aches for the bereaved families. NFIA joins the world in mourning. May the victims rest in peace.”

Indian Overseas Congress USA, led by Mohinder Singh Gilzian, released a formal statement condoling the incident. “We are deeply shocked and heartbroken by the tragic Air India plane crash that has claimed precious lives and left countless families in grief. On behalf of the Indian Overseas Congress USA, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. We stand in solidarity with the nation as it mourns this tragic loss, and we pray for strength, healing, and peace for all those affected.May the departed souls rest in eternal peace, and may their families find comfort in the love and support of the global community, ” it added.

Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) International expresses its profound shock and sadness over the crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad. "We are deeply pained to learn of the loss of so many precious lives and offer our sincerest condolences and prayers to their families as well as the nation of India," it said.

"GOPIO International stands solemnly with all those who have been affected by this unthinkable tragedy," it added.

PARAM Philadelphia Rajasthani Mandal also expressed its condolences saying, "On behalf of PARAM and its entire community, I extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad, India."

"Our hearts go out especially to the young medical students who were among those who lost their lives, as well as to the dedicated crew members and all others aboard. Their dreams, service, and aspirations were a source of inspiration, and their loss is deeply felt across borders. In this time of immense sorrow, we offer our prayers, strength, and unwavering support to the bereaved families. May those who passed away find eternal peace, and may those who survived find comfort and healing in the days ahead, " it added.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America also expressed its condolences, saying,:"On behalf of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the tragic crash of Flight AI171. Our hearts go out to you in this time of unimaginable sorrow. No words can truly capture the depth of grief felt for the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the communities mourning their loved ones."

"Please know that we stand with you in solidarity and prayer, offering our deepest sympathies. In moments of profound loss, our faith guides us to respond with compassion, to comfort one another, and to help bring healing where it is needed most. If there is anything we can do to support or assist you, please do not hesitate to reach out," the statement added.

The crash, which involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, occurred just after 1:39 p.m. local time. Visuals from the site showed flames, dense smoke, and debris in a civilian area close to the airport. Emergency services and rescue teams continue operations as investigations are underway.

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