National flag flies at half-mast in Delhi as India observes mourning to honour Qatar's former Amir
New Delhi, July 13
The national flag atop the Rashtrapati Bhavan and other buildings in Delhi flew at half-mast as India observed one day of national mourning on Monday as a mark of respect for Qatar's former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, following his death.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared pictures of buildings on X that showed the national flag flying at half-mast.
India has declared one day of national mourning following the demise of Sheikh Hamad, who passed away at the age of 74 years, on Sunday.
"The Government of India has declared one-day national mourning tomorrow, 13 July 2026, as a mark of respect for His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Father Amir of the State of Qatar, who passed away today. The National Flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India on all buildings where the National Flag is flown regularly, and there will be no official entertainment on the day," the MEA said on Sunday.
Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is expected to visit Qatar shortly to convey condolences on behalf of the Indian government, according to the MEA statement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed grief over the death of Sheikh Hamad, describing him as a "visionary leader" and a "true friend".
He offered his condolences to Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the entire royal family and people of Qatar.
"We deeply mourn the passing of Father Amir of State of Qatar, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. A visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity, we remember him also as a true friend whom I had the honour of meeting during my last visit to Qatar in February 2024. I convey my sincere condolences to the Amir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the entire royal family and people of Qatar. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace," PM Modi posted on X.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, when he handed over the reins of leadership to his son Sheikh Tamim. During his reign, Qatar witnessed massive economic, social and cultural development, and the country extended its status among the Arab and international community, according to Amiri Diwan's statement.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I understand the diplomatic courtesies, I sometimes wonder why we observe national mourning for foreign leaders but not for our own martyrs or local heroes with the same scale. Just a thought.
Qatar has been a reliable partner for India, especially during the Gulf crisis and for our energy security. This is a fitting tribute to a leader who shaped modern Qatar. 🇮🇳🤝🇶🇦
Interesting to see India honour a former leader of Qatar in such a prominent manner. It shows how deep the diplomatic relations have grown, especially with the gas trade and the large Indian diaspora working there.
It's sad to see him go. My family lived in Doha during his reign—he really transformed the country. The education city, the museums, the infrastructure—all started under him. A true reformer. 😢
Respect to a leader who helped build a nation. But I hope the same protocol is followed when a great Indian statesman or a war hero passes away. Just saying.
This is standard diplomatic practice. India maintains strong ties with Qatar, and this gesture will be appreciated in Doha. The PM Modi meeting in 2024 shows the personal rapport too.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.