India mourns the loss of one of the most distinguished politicians as former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday evening at AIIMS in New Delhi. He was 92. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic and political landscape, Dr Singh died due to age-related health issues.
Dr Singh reportedly lost consciousness at his residence before being rushed to AIIMS. Despite extensive revival efforts, he was declared dead at 9:51 pm.
In a statement, AIIMS confirmed, “With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, aged 92… Despite all efforts, he could not be revived.”
His body was moved to his residence at 3, Motilal Nehru Marg, later that night, where senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid their respects.
Arrangements have been made for the public to pay homage ahead of the final rites, scheduled for Saturday. The funeral will be conducted with full state honours.
National and Party Mourning
The central government has declared seven days of national mourning, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast.
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal announced the cancellation of all party programmes, including the Foundation Day celebrations slated for December 28.
“Party programmes will resume on January 3, 2025. The party flag will be flown at half-mast during this period,” he stated.
Dr Manmohan Singh, born in Punjab in 1932, served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, completing two consecutive terms. He is credited with spearheading India’s economic liberalisation in 1991 as Finance Minister, a move that transformed the country’s economic trajectory.
As Prime Minister, Dr Singh’s tenure saw significant milestones, including the enactment of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Right to Education Act, and the Food Security Act.
His leadership also facilitated the landmark Indo-US nuclear deal, enhancing India’s global standing.
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra remarked, “Few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that Manmohan Singh did. His honesty will always be an inspiration for us.”
