Final farewell: Former PM Manmohan Singh laid to rest with full honors

New Delhi: In a solemn ceremony on Saturday, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was cremated with full state honors at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate. The event was attended by family, friends, and numerous dignitaries, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, all of whom paid their final respects by laying wreaths at his mortal remains.

A Respectful Farewell

The cremation rituals were conducted at the VIP Ghat following Sikh traditions. Dr. Singh's body was placed on a pyre made of sandalwood, symbolizing purity and respect. Prominent Congress leaders such as Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi were present to honor the former Prime Minister after paying their tributes.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Singh's remains were transported from his residence to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters in Delhi, allowing party workers and the public to pay their respects. Many gathered outside his home to commemorate his life and contributions. Congress leader Madhusudan Mistry remarked on Dr. Singh’s legacy, stating that he enacted laws that benefited millions. "His demise is a loss for everyone," he emphasized.

Tributes from Leaders

Congress leader Mumtaz Patel expressed profound sorrow over Dr. Singh's passing, stating, "Today, India has lost a great man." He highlighted that while some labeled him a weak Prime Minister, this perception was misguided; Dr. Singh worked tirelessly for the nation with strength and kindness. Additionally, Congress MP Manish Tewari reflected on the significance of the day, noting that "a very fine person" and a "renowned economist" is no longer with us.

He added that Dr. Singh lived a noble and simple life and wished for his soul to rest in peace.Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar praised Dr. Singh for initiating several "revolutions" during his tenure as Prime Minister. He reiterated Dr. Singh’s belief that both media and opposition should remember his contributions to India.

Legacy of Leadership

Following a Cabinet meeting on Friday, Home Minister Amit Shah informed Congress President Kharge and Dr. Singh's family that the Government would allocate space for a memorial in honor of the late Prime Minister. This gesture underscores the significant impact Dr. Singh had on the nation.Dr. Singh’s political journey spanned decades, beginning as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996 when he pioneered economic reforms that reshaped India's economy.

He served as the 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, succeeding Atal Bihari Vajpayee. His leadership during economic crises and efforts to modernize India are particularly noteworthy.After retiring from public life post-2014 elections, Dr. Singh left behind a legacy marked by unprecedented growth and international respect.