New Delhi, December 28: The mortal remains of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh were taken to Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi’s Kashmere Gate for his last rites. Earlier in the day, his body was kept at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters for party workers and leaders to pay their final respects.
Congress leaders, paying tribute to Dr. Singh, remembered his invaluable contributions. Congress leader Madhusudan Mistry stated, “He made lifelong laws that benefited millions. His passing is a loss for everyone.”
Congress leader Mumtaz Patel recalled, “India has lost a great man today. He was not just a remarkable leader but also a kind human being. Some may have called him a weak Prime Minister, but that was far from the truth. He always worked for the country with strength and compassion.”
Congress MP Manish Tewari expressed, “Today is a deeply poignant moment. We have lost a great economist and a world statesman. His passing is a sorrowful day, not just for India, but for the entire world. He lived a life of simplicity and nobility. May his soul rest in peace.”
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Dr. Singh’s last rites are scheduled to take place at Nigambodh Ghat at 11:45 AM. Acharya Yogesh Kumar Sharma informed that the cremation rituals will be carried out using sandalwood sticks in accordance with Sikh customs.
Sharma added, “The rituals will begin at 11:15 AM when dignitaries including the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister are expected to arrive. Homage will be paid to Dr. Singh once all attendees are present.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge earlier spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting that Dr. Singh’s funeral take place at a location suitable for the construction of a memorial in his honor. Kharge emphasized that a memorial would be a fitting tribute to a leader who rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most respected statesmen.
In response, Home Minister Amit Shah assured that the government would allocate space for the memorial. The cremation will proceed as planned while arrangements for the memorial, including the formation of a trust, are finalized.
Dr. Singh’s political career spanned several decades, with significant roles including Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, during which he led transformative economic reforms that reshaped India’s economy. He served as the 13th Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, following Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and is remembered for his steady leadership through economic crises and his role in modernizing India’s economy.
After retiring from public life, Dr. Singh’s leadership saw India through a period of unprecedented growth and global recognition. He was succeeded by Narendra Modi after the Congress-led UPA lost the 2014 general elections.