Government Programs Canceled, State Honors Announced as India Pays Tribute to an Iconic Leader
New Delhi, December 27: The Indian government has declared a seven-day national mourning to honor the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26 at AIIMS, Delhi, at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions.
All government programs scheduled for Friday have been canceled, and the Union Cabinet will meet at 11:00 AM to offer formal condolences. Dr. Singh’s last rites will be conducted with full state honors, underscoring his significant contribution to the nation.
In addition to the national mourning, Karnataka Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) announced a government holiday on December 27 and state mourning across Karnataka to pay tribute to the late leader.
AIIMS Statement on Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Demise
According to a statement issued by AIIMS, Delhi, Dr. Singh experienced a sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26 and was immediately rushed to the hospital.
“With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He was being treated for age-related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency at AIIMS, New Delhi at 8:06 PM. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 PM,” the statement read.
Tributes Pour in from Across the Nation
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and political leaders across party lines have expressed profound grief over Dr. Singh’s passing.
Dr. Manmohan Singh was born in Punjab in 1932 and served as Prime Minister of India for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014. He played a key role in shaping India’s economic policies and spearheaded critical reforms during his tenure.
A Legacy of Leadership and Integrity
Before becoming Prime Minister, Dr. Singh held several crucial positions, including Finance Minister, where he oversaw India’s 1991 economic liberalization reforms. Known for his intellect, humility, and statesmanship, Dr. Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year, marking the end of an illustrious 33-year parliamentary career.
His contributions to Indian politics and economic policy have left an indelible mark on the nation, and his passing represents the end of an era.
As India mourns the loss of one of its most revered statesmen, preparations are underway for Dr. Singh’s state funeral, where the nation will bid a final farewell to a leader who shaped modern India with wisdom and vision.