Manmohan Singh, Former PM, Passes Away at 92; Nation Mourns
Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away in New Delhi last night at the age of 92. He breathed his last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he had been admitted to the Emergency Ward around 8 PM in critical condition.
Dr. Singh, a prominent economist and statesman, served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 during the Congress-led UPA government. Born on September 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, he retired from the Rajya Sabha in April this year after an illustrious 33-year tenure.
Tributes from National Leaders
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her deep sorrow, highlighting Dr. Singh’s unique ability to seamlessly merge academia and administration. She praised his pivotal role in reforming the Indian economy during his tenure in public office.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar referred to him as a distinguished economist who transformed India’s economic landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the loss of a “distinguished leader,” recognizing Dr. Singh’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the nation’s most respected economists and politicians. He commended Dr. Singh’s contributions as Finance Minister and his impactful tenure as Prime Minister, which focused on improving the lives of Indian citizens.
Remembering a Leader Across Party Lines
Union Home Minister Amit Shah acknowledged Dr. Singh’s significant role in India’s governance, from his early days as Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to his tenure as Finance Minister and Prime Minister.
BJP President JP Nadda noted that Dr. Singh’s leadership earned respect across party lines, describing his legacy as an enduring source of inspiration for generations.
Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw paid tribute to Dr. Singh’s leadership, humility, and dedication, emphasizing that his contributions would always be remembered.
Congress Leaders Pay Homage
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called Dr. Singh a visionary statesman and an economist of unparalleled stature. He lauded Dr. Singh’s immense contributions to nation-building, stating that his legacy would forever remain in Indian history.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described Dr. Singh as a leader of wisdom and integrity, whose deep understanding of economics and humility inspired the nation.
Regional Leaders Join in Mourning
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar referred to Dr. Singh’s passing as an irreparable loss to Indian politics. He highlighted how Dr. Singh’s leadership gave a new direction to the Indian economy.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s demise leaves a void in Indian politics and public life, with leaders across the spectrum recognizing his lasting impact on the nation’s economic and political landscape. His legacy as an economist, statesman, and Prime Minister will continue to inspire future generations.