India Mourns: Former PM Manmohan Singh’s Last Rites Scheduled for Saturday

Leaders across political lines pay tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, remembering his visionary leadership and contributions to India’s progress.

New Delhi, December 27: India prepares to bid a final farewell to Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, whose last rites are scheduled for Saturday. An official announcement confirming the funeral details is expected later today.

A Nation in Mourning

Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal described Dr. Singh’s passing as a “painful loss” for the nation, hailing him as a “post-independence hero and a true icon of governance.” He confirmed that all Congress programs, including the Congress Foundation Day celebrations on December 28, have been canceled as a mark of respect.

The mortal remains of Dr. Manmohan Singh were brought to his residence at 3 Motilal Nehru Marg, where the public will be allowed to pay their last respects.

Political Leaders Pay Tribute

Leaders across party lines, including Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, visited Singh’s residence to offer condolences. Leaders from opposition parties such as Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, Arvind Kejriwal, Bhagwant Mann, and Pinarayi Vijayan expressed their sorrow.

Rahul Gandhi, in a heartfelt message on X, wrote:
“Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. I have lost a mentor and guide, and millions of us who admired him will remember him with pride.”

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh emphasized Dr. Singh’s contributions:
“His Prime Ministership brought landmark legislation on rural employment, tribal rights, food security, and education. The Indo-US nuclear agreement was a global milestone. He left an indelible mark on our history.”

A Statesman Remembered

Dr. Singh, known for his soft-spoken demeanor and sharp intellect, served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. He played a pivotal role in economic reforms, strengthening India’s global standing, and driving policy initiatives that reshaped the country.

Earlier this year, Dr. Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha after serving for 33 years, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, integrity, and visionary leadership.

Funeral with State Honours

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s last rites will be conducted with full state honors, reflecting the nation’s gratitude for his lifelong service. The government has declared seven days of national mourning, with flags at half-mast and official events canceled.

As India prepares to bid farewell to one of its most revered leaders, the nation remembers Dr. Manmohan Singh not just for his economic expertise but for his humility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to India’s progress.