Tributes Pour In as PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mamata Banerjee Honor Pope Francis
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Synopsis
On April 21, leaders including Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over Pope Francis's passing, praising his legacy of compassion and justice. Their heartfelt condolences reflect the influence he had on millions worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Pope Francis passed away at 88 on Easter Monday.
- Leaders expressed heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community.
- Pope Francis was recognized for his compassion and support for the marginalized.
- India has a significant Catholic population and strong ties with the Holy See.
- Many leaders shared their personal reflections on his legacy.
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers expressed their sorrow on Monday regarding the death of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
Remembering his interactions with the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, PM Modi stated that Pope Francis will be cherished as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions globally.
"Deeply saddened by the loss of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this moment of sorrow and reflection, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will forever be recognized as a light of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by countless individuals worldwide," PM Modi conveyed in his condolence message.
India and the Holy See have maintained friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1948. India also boasts the second-largest Catholic population in Asia.
Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi commended Pope Francis for his support of the marginalized and expressed his grief on the social media platform X, stating, "Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a global advocate for compassion, justice, and peace."
"He championed the downtrodden and the marginalized, spoke boldly against inequality, and inspired millions across different faiths with his message of love and humanity. My thoughts are with the Catholic community in India and worldwide," he added.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra characterized the passing of Pope Francis as a profound loss for the entire world.
"He was genuinely a representation of love and compassion. He stood for the truth, voiced concerns against injustice, and cared for the poor and marginalized with true faith. He served as an inspiration to millions globally who yearn for a more peaceful and kinder world," she stated in a message on social media.
In his message of condolence, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari remarked, "Saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. My sincere condolences to the global Catholic community. His legacy of love and humility will persist for generations. May his soul find eternal peace in the presence of the Divine."
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her sorrow over Pope Francis's passing, stating, "Saddened to learn of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope is the highest esteemed authority in the Catholic world, revered by billions of Christians globally as the Supreme Pontiff."
"My heart goes out to all my fellow Christian brothers and sisters in India and around the world, and I share a profound sense of loss and empathy with them all," she remarked.
Condoling the loss of Pope Francis, Akhilesh Yadav, President of the Samajwadi Party, stated, "Farewell to Pope Francis, a true servant of peace and justice. Your legacy lives on."
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin remembered the Pope as a compassionate figure.
In a message on X, he stated, "Deeply saddened by the loss of Pope Francis, a transformative leader who guided the Catholic Church with empathy and progressive values."
"He was a compassionate and progressive voice who brought humility, moral courage, and a deep sense of empathy to the papacy. His commitment to the poor, his embrace of the marginalized, and his advocacy for justice, peace, and interfaith dialogue garnered respect far beyond the Catholic community. The legacy he leaves behind is one of compassion in action and faith rooted in humanity," he wrote.
