Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over Pope Francis’ death, praising his legacy of compassion and service to the poor. He recalled personal meetings and the Pope’s special affection for India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, offering heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. In a post on X, the Prime Minister reflected on the Pope’s legacy of “compassion, humility, and dedication to serving the poor.
PM Modi recalled his meetings with Pope Francis, highlighting his commitment to “inclusive development” and his special affection for India.
“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world,” PM Modi said.
“From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace,” he added.
Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the… pic.twitter.com/QKod5yTXrB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American Pope, passed away at 88 on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of humility, service, and dialogue. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced his death from the Casa Santa Marta, where the pontiff had been living. The devastating news came just a day after Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance on Easter Sunday, addressing more than 35,000 faithful in St Peter’s Square.
The Vatican said that the pontiff had been hospitalised for weeks battling a complex lung infection which led to early stages of kidney insufficiency. “This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican.