India to observe one-day mourning on January 13 in view of Oman King’s demise

New Delhi: As a mark of respect to Oman's Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, a one-day mourning will be observed in India on Monday (January 13).

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated that the national flag will fly at half-mast on the day. In addition to this, no official programme will be conducted.

The order issued by joint secretary (CS) SK Sahi, Ministry of Home Affairs, stated that as a mark of respect to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Sultan of Oman, who passed away ”the Indian government has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on January 13 throughout India. National flag to fly at half-mast and there will be no official entertainment on that day."

Prime Minister Modi hailed the Omani King as a beacon of peace for India and the world while expressing condolence.

Expressing grief, the Prime Minister also said that Sultan Qaboos was a "visionary leader and statesman" and credited him for transforming Oman into a modern and prosperous nation.

The Prime Minister’s tweet read:  "I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. He was a visionary leader and statesman who transformed Oman into a modern and prosperous nation. He was a beacon of peace for our region and the world.

PM Modi also called Sultan Qaboos a true friend of India, who displayed strong leadership in the development of a vibrant strategic partnership between India and Oman.

“I will always cherish the warmth and affection I received from him. May his soul rest in peace," Modi stated in his follow-up tweet.

Sultan Qaboos, served as the ruler of Oman since 1970 when he ousted his father in a bloodless coup.

One of Middle East's longest serving rulers, was ill for a long time.

He breathed his last on Saturday (January 11)

Oman observes a three-day mourning period in view of the Omani King’s death.

With ANI inputs

• India
• Oman King
• Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said