India declares three-day state mourning over Pope Francis’s death

New Delhi: The Indian government has declared a three-day state mourning following the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

According to an official statement, the mourning will be observed on April 22 and 23, with an additional day to coincide with the pope’s funeral. During this period, the national flag will fly at half-mast on all buildings across India where it is regularly hoisted.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. He had been battling multiple health issues and had recently recovered from a severe bout of pneumonia.

Elected in 2013, Pope Francis was known for his humble approach and deep concern for the poor, which earned him global admiration throughout his 12-year papacy.