Pope Francis dies at 88; first Latin American pontiff remembered for historic reforms

New Delhi: Pope Francis, the first Latin American and non-European pontiff in over 1,300 years, died at the age of 88, the Vatican said on Monday. According to officials, he breathed his last at 7:35 am local time.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the pontiff’s death. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. My heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community around the world in this hour of grief,” he said in a post.

Pope Francis had been grappling with health complications in recent months. He was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14 and underwent treatment for pneumonia and anaemia.

He remained hospitalised for five weeks due to a lung infection. During the treatment, the Vatican had said that his blood tests indicated signs of kidney failure. He was discharged on March 14.

Elected in 2013, Pope Francis was widely known for his progressive stance on several social issues. He took unprecedented steps such as allowing gay individuals to attend church, blessing same-sex couples, and granting religious recognition to remarriage.

He also issued a public apology for the sexual abuse of children within the Church.

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, reform, and efforts to modernise the Catholic Church.