The Assam government has announced a two-day state mourning to pay respects following the passing of Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The mourning period will be observed on April 22 and 23, with an additional day of mourning scheduled for the day of the Pope’s funeral, the date of which will be announced later.
Pope Francis, the first non-European pontiff in nearly 1,300 years, passed away at the age of 88. His death, attributed to complications from double pneumonia, marks the end of a papacy noted for its emphasis on humility, compassion, and global outreach. During the mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across all government buildings in Assam where it is regularly displayed, and no official entertainment events will be held, according to an official directive.
The Vatican has scheduled Pope Francis’ funeral for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, with public viewing of his body beginning Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica. The pontiff’s legacy as a champion of peace and interfaith harmony continues to resonate worldwide, with Assam joining the global community in honoring his contributions.
