India has announced a one-day national mourning on July 13, 2026, as a mark of respect for the late Father Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away at the age of 74. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the National Flag will be flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is regularly hoisted, and no official entertainment will be held on the day.
Government Declaration and Condolences
The MEA issued a statement confirming the mourning period: "The Government of India has declared one-day national mourning tomorrow, July 13, 2026, as a mark of respect for 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."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity and a true friend of India. In a post on X, PM Modi said: "We deeply mourn the passing of Father Amir of the 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."
Ministerial Visit to Qatar
The MEA also noted that Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, is expected to visit Qatar shortly to convey condolences on behalf of the Government of India to the State of Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad's Legacy
The Amiri Diwan of Qatar announced the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on Sunday, stating: "With hearts steadfast in faith in God's decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late - may God have mercy on him - His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning."
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and was a key architect of the energy-rich country's stunning development. During his reign, Qatar experienced significant economic, social, and cultural growth that bolstered its international standing, according to Al Jazeera. His tenure also saw the promulgation of Qatar's first permanent constitution in 2004 and the introduction of municipal elections, in which women were allowed to vote and stand as candidates.
