National flag to fly at half-mast today as mark of respect to Ram Vilas Paswan

New Delhi: The national flag will be flown at half-mast on Friday (October 9) in Delhi and capitals of all states and Union Territories as a mark of respect to Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan who passed away on Thursday, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced. A state funeral will also be accorded to the union minister.

A meeting of the Union Cabinet has been convened on Friday to express condolences over the minister’s demise, officials said.

Expressing grief at Paswan’s demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was saddened beyond words as his death has left a void in the nation that will perhaps never be filled. “Shri Ram Vilas Paswan Ji’s demise is a personal loss. I have lost a friend, valued colleague and someone who was extremely passionate to ensure every poor person leads a life of dignity,” Modi said in his condolence message.

The prime minister also said Paswan “rose in politics through hard work and determination. As a young leader, he resisted tyranny and the assault on our democracy during the Emergency. He was an outstanding Parliamentarian and Minister, making lasting contributions in several policy areas.”