Central govt announces one-day mourning after Jayalalithaa's death

New Delhi: The central government announced one-day national mourning on Tuesday in view of the demise of Jayalalithaa.

Hour after her death, the Tamil Nadu government too declared a seven-day state mourning from December 6 onwards.

During the period, the national flag at all government building will be flown at half-mast. No official ceremonial function will be held during this time. The government also announced a three-day holiday for all educational institutions in the state.

Jayalalithaa or 'Amma', as she was fondly called by her supporters, breathed her last in Chennai yesterday night. She was one of the most powerful and popular politician leader of the country.

In the meantime, Uttarakhand, Karnataka and Bihar government too declared one-day state mourning as a mark of respect to late Jayalalithaa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to leave for Tamil Nadu soon to pay his tributes to Amma at Chennai's Rajaji Hall. 

"Deeply saddened at the passing away of Selvi Jayalalithaa. Her demise has left a huge void in Indian politics. Jayalalithaa ji’s connect with citizens, concern for welfare of the poor, the women & marginalized will always be a source of inspiration," PM Modi tweeted. 

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Tamil Nadu in this hour of grief. May the Almighty grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss with courage and fortitude. I will always cherish the innumerable occasions when I had the opportunity to interact with Jayalalithaa ji. May her soul rest in peace," Modi said in a series of tweets.