Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a tragic plane crash on Wednesday morning. His charter plane crashed during landing at Baramati Airport, killing all the people on board. After this sad news, three-day state mourning has been announced in the state and his last rites will be performed tomorrow in Katewadi village of Baramati. After this incident, now the discussion is about what are the protocols for the last farewell of a Deputy Chief Minister and can the general public also participate in it. Let us now tell you what are the rules for the funeral of Deputy CM and can anyone attend his funeral.

What is the official protocol for the Deputy Chief Minister?

In India, the rules for final farewell after the death of persons holding constitutional posts are quite clear. According to the standard protocol of the Home Ministry, state honors are mandatory only for the President, Prime Minister, former President and Governors. Whereas constitutionally the post of Deputy Chief Minister is considered equal to that of a Cabinet Minister. In such a situation, giving him state honor completely depends on the discretion of the state government and the Chief Minister.

State honor and tricolor rule

The mortal remains can be wrapped in the national flag only after receiving state honours. It is mandatory to follow it under the Indian Flag Code 2002. Using the tricolor without official order is considered a violation of the law. Apart from this, Guard of Honor is given by the state police or military contingent. At the same time, a formal gun salute is given, which is the main part of the state farewell. During state mourning, flags remain at half-mast on government buildings and official entertainment programs are cancelled.

Maharashtra specific protocol

There has been an old tradition in Maharashtra that leaders who have made a major contribution to the development of the state, even if they do not fall in the essential category, are given state honours. In the case of Ajit Pawar too, the state protocol department has made complete preparations to ensure a dignified farewell as per the established norms.

Can anyone attend the funeral of Deputy CM?

Usually, elaborate security arrangements are made by the administration in state funerals. The entire funeral arrangements are handled by the state administration, which is coordinated with the family. In such a situation, supporters and the public can pay their last respects. But due to security and protocol, entry to the cremation ground or funeral site may be limited.

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