New Delhi [India]: Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, will represent India at the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City, Rome on May 18, Parliament sources confirmed.
As per official sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has nominated Harivansh and Yanthungo Patton, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, to lead the Indian delegation at the historic event.
The delegation departed from Delhi on Saturday.
Extending warm wishes to the newly elected Pope, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining strong ties and continued engagement with the Holy See.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said:
“I convey sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service. India remains committed to continued dialogue and engagement with the Holy See to further our shared values.”
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, was elected on May 8, becoming the first US-born Pope in history — a development that has garnered significant attention and joy among Catholics across the Americas, according to CNN.
In his first formal meeting with Cardinals, which reportedly began with a standing ovation, the new Pontiff explained his choice of name:
He said he selected “Leo” to honor Pope Leo XIII, who notably addressed social justice issues during the Industrial Revolution.
Pope Leo XIII led the Roman Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903, and is widely remembered for his pivotal role in shaping Catholic social teaching. His 1891 encyclical, “Rerum Novarum” (Latin for “Of Revolutionary Change”), highlighted the impact of the Industrial Revolution on workers, calling for improved labor conditions and social reform.