Ajit Pawar Death : Wave of mourning over Maharashtra; All schools and offices closed today after Ajit Pawar's death

A strong leader in Maharashtra politics and the state's Deputy Chief Minister Ajitdada Pawar's untimely demise has cast a pall of gloom over the entire state. The Maharashtra government has declared a 'public holiday' and 'political mourning' across the state today, January 28, 2026, in the wake of this tragic event. Similarly, a three-day official mourning has been announced. As per the Governor's orders, the General Administration Department has issued an official government resolution (GR) in this regard.

Key Points from the Government Decision:

Offices Closed: All government and semi-government offices in the state will remain completely closed today.

Holiday for Educational Institutions: A holiday has been declared for all schools, colleges, and educational institutions.

Flag at Half-Mast: The national flag on all government buildings in the state will be flown at half-mast today.

What is 'State Mourning'? What are the rules during this period? When an important leader or official passes away, the government declares 'political or state mourning' in their honor. During this period, the following protocols are observed: 1. National flag at half-mast: On buildings where the national flag is flown daily (e.g., Ministry, District Collector's Office, Legislative Building), the flag is lowered to half-mast. This is considered a symbol of national mourning. Events canceled: All entertainment and cultural programs organized by the government today have been immediately canceled. 2. Ban on official entertainment programs: During this period, no festival, ceremony, or entertainment program is organized by the government. If such a program is already scheduled, it is canceled or postponed. 3. No welcome for foreign guests: During the mourning period, official welcomes or banquet programs for any foreign dignitaries are generally avoided. 4. State funeral: The concerned leader is given a 'political state funeral'. This includes a salute by a police contingent. 5. Offering of floral tributes: In important government offices, floral tributes are offered to the leader's portrait as a mark of respect.