Ahmedabad plane crash: Survivor says wife left, employers refuse to hire him after burn injuries

The AI171plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, not only claimed the lives of around 260 people but also left deep scars on the lives of survivors. One such survivor, Ajaybhai Parmar (28), says he is now fighting a difficult battle for acceptance, employment, and dignity after suffering severe burn injuries in the tragedy.

Ajaybhai, who was working at Civil Hospital at the time of the accident, recalled the horrifying moments when the Air India plane crashed and burst into flames.

Speaking about the incident, he said that around 1 pm he was with his mother when the crash occurred. “The flames spread rapidly. My scooter and mobile phone were completely burned. I also suffered severe burns on my body,” Ajaybhai said while describing the terrifying experience. 

Ajaybhai considers himself fortunate to have survived but says the consequences of the accident continue to affect every part of his life.

Due to the severity of his injuries, Ajaybhai underwent medical treatment for his burns. The accident left permanent marks on his skin and caused serious damage to his hands and feet. Even after recovering from the immediate injuries, he says he continues to face physical difficulties in his daily life. As part of the relief efforts, compensation was provided to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy. Ajaybhai said he also received ₹25 lakh. 

The emotional impact of the tragedy has been equally painful. Ajaybhai claims that his wife left him shortly after their marriage because of the physical changes caused by the burn injuries. He said they had been married only a short time when the accident occurred.

“What hurts me the most is that the accident changed my appearance and my life completely. My wife left me, and now I am alone,” he said.

Ajaybhai says he is also struggling to find employment. Many employers hesitate to offer him work because of his physical condition. Despite being willing and able to work, he says he has faced repeated rejection while searching for a job. 

“People see my burns and refuse to hire me. No one is ready to give me a chance. Without work, it has become very difficult to support myself,” he said.

On June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI171 crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The crash caused a massive fire, killing around 260 people and injuring several others, including survivor Ajaybhai Parmar.