President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, has left for Vatican City to represent India at the state funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis. The Indian delegation also comprises Union Minister of State George Kurian and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Joshua Peter De Souza, as shared by Mr. Rijiju on social media platform X.
"Departing for Rome (Vatican City) alongside Hon'ble President Smt Droupadi Murmu Ji to attend the State Funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis and convey the heartfelt condolences of the Government and people of India. The delegation includes MoS George Kurian and Goa Dy. Speaker Joshua De Souza," Rijiju posted.
During their two-day official visit, the Indian leaders will participate in the funeral services and convey the nation’s tribute to the late pontiff. Pope Francis breathed his last on April 21 at the age of 88 at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, as per a formal announcement from the Vatican. He had become the head of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, and held the distinction of being the first pope from Latin America.
According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs, President Murmu is scheduled to lay a ceremonial wreath at the Basilica of Saint Peter on April 25 as a gesture of India’s respect. The following day, April 26, she will be present at the funeral Mass to be held in Saint Peter’s Square, alongside global dignitaries who will gather to pay homage to the late Pope.
The MEA, in a press release, hailed Pope Francis as "a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual strength" who touched millions across the globe with his message and leadership.
In honour of Pope Francis’s passing, the Government of India has declared April 26 as a day of state mourning. The Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered that the national flag be flown at half-mast on all government buildings where it is normally displayed, and no official festivities or entertainment events will be held on the day.
Earlier, India had observed three days of national mourning as a mark of deep respect—two days on April 22 and April 23, and a final day on April 26 to coincide with the funeral ceremonies.