Former President of India Pranab Mukherjee’s funeral took place on Tuesday with full military honours. He was 84.
Pranab Mukherjee – who passed away in Delhi on August 31 – served as foreign and finance minister of India, apart from being the President of India from 2012 to 2017. He was conferred with the Bharat Ratna last year.
The last rites were followed with protocol relating to COVID-19 as the former President had tested positive for coronavirus. The Centre has announced a seven-day mourning. The home ministry has said that there will be state mourning across the country till September 6.
Due to the COVID-19 protocol, the body was taken for last rites in a hearse van instead of a gun carriage. The former President’s body was taken to his home in Delhi for people to pay respects. Many dignitaries including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their last respects. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, too visited his home, among others.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee wrote on Twitter that “An era has ended. For decades he was a father figure. From my first win as MP, to being my senior Cabinet colleague, to his becoming President while I was CM…” She added: “So many memories. A visit to Delhi without Pranabda is unimaginable. He is a legend in all subjects from politics to economics. Will be forever grateful. Shall miss him immensely. My condolences to Abhijit & Sharmistha.”
Cover image: @narendramodi on Twitter
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