Telangana declares public holiday over Abdul Kalam's demise

The Government of Telangana has declared Tuesday as a public holiday, as a mark of respect to late former president APJ Abdul Kalam's memory.

"The Government of Telangana deeply mourns the sudden demise of former President APJ Abdul Kalam and declares that all Government offices, local bodies and educational institutions shall remain closed today as a mark of respect to departed soul," a statement released by the Telangana Government said.

Kalam's mortal remains were flown to Delhi from Guwahati earlier today. Army personnel paid tributes to the former president in Shillong before his body flown to Guwahati. Both the Houses of Parliament are likely to make obituary references and adjourn today as a mark of respect to the former president's memory.

On Monday, Kalam passed away in Shillong after he was admitted to a hospital in the city. The former president collapsed during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management. He was in a critical condition and had been admitted to the city's Bethany Hospital. Kalam served as the 11th President on India from 2002 to 2007.