Ranchi, September 6, 2026: The Jharkhand government has declared two days of state mourning on September 6 and 7 following the death of Cabinet Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu at a hospital in Giridih on Sunday morning.
The government has also ordered all state government offices to remain closed on September 7. The Cabinet Secretariat and Vigilance Department has issued instructions to administrative and police authorities to take necessary action in accordance with the mourning protocol.
National flag to fly at half-mast
During the two-day mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on government buildings where it is regularly displayed.
The government has also directed that no official state functions be organised during the mourning period. Administrative and police authorities have been asked to ensure compliance with the prescribed protocol.
Copies of the government order have been sent to the Governor’s Office, Chief Minister’s Office, Chief Secretary’s Office and senior officials of various departments, along with concerned administrative and police authorities.
The Jharkhand High Court, Lokayukta Office, State Information Commission and Assembly Secretariat have also been informed for necessary action.
Government schools and colleges to remain closed
The closure on September 7 will also cover government schools and colleges across Jharkhand.
The Director of Jharkhand Education Project confirmed that academic activities in all government schools and colleges will remain suspended on that day.
Sonu held several key portfolios
Sudivya Kumar Sonu was serving as a Cabinet minister with responsibility for several departments, including Urban Development and Housing, Higher and Technical Education, Tourism, Art and Culture, and Sports and Youth Affairs.
The state government announced the mourning period following his death as a mark of respect to the late minister.
