New Delhi [India], April 21 (ANI): Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences over the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta after prolonged illness.
The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on X, expressed grief over the death of Pope Francis.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a global voice of compassion, justice, and peace. He stood by the downtrodden and the marginalised, spoke fearlessly against inequality, and inspired millions across faiths with his message of love and humanity. My thoughts are with the Catholic community in India and around the world,” Rahul Gandhi said.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra termed the passing of the Pope as “loss to the entire world”.
“The passing away of His Holiness Pope Francis is a loss to the entire world. He was truly an embodiment of love and compassion. He stood for the truth, he spoke out fearlessly against injustice and cared for the poor and marginalised in true faith. He was an inspiration to millions across the world who hope and strive for a more peaceful and kinder world. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” she said.
Chief ministers across the country also expressed sorrow over Pope Francis’ death.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a spiritual leader who inspired millions through his humility, compassion, and message of peace. A beacon of hope, he guided humanity with love and kindness. On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community and all those touched by his profound legacy.”
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. He was a beacon of compassion who stood with the poor and marginalised, took a critical stance against global capitalism, and championed interfaith dialogue. His legacy will inspire generations striving for justice and equality.”
Karnataka CM Siddaramaih said that Pope Francis was a symbol of peace and compassion.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis — a symbol of peace and compassion. His life was a message of love for the poor and hope for the world. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Christian community across Karnataka and the globe,” he said.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said, “Saddened by the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis. My sincere condolences to the global Catholic community. His legacy of love and humility will endure for generations. May his soul rest in eternal peace in the presence of the Divine.”
Earlier on Sunday, the Pope delivered his Easter message from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to thousands of people gathered in Vatican Square.
The 88-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church was recently discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he spent five weeks receiving treatment for an infection that led to double pneumonia.
On Easter Sunday, he was able to offer the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing to the city of Rome and to the world. Only the pope can offer this blessing, which includes the offer of an indulgence, a remission for the effects of sins.
He dedicated the Easter Urbi et Orbi message to calling for peace worldwide, global disarmament, and the release of prisoners. (ANI)
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