Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. He was admitted to AIIMS Delhi after suddenly losing consciousness at home. Despite the doctors’ efforts, he could not be revived, and his death was confirmed at 9:51 PM. Manmohan Singh had been facing health issues for some time.
Manmohan Singh was born in Punjab in 1932 and served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. He was known for his expertise in economics and his quiet but effective leadership. Before becoming Prime Minister, Singh held many important roles, including as Finance Minister and as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Singh, calling him one of India’s “most distinguished leaders.” Modi praised Singh for rising from humble beginnings to become a respected economist and leader. He remembered Singh’s wisdom and humility. Later, PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Singh’s residence to offer their respects.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who considered Singh his “mentor and guide,” also mourned the loss. Rahul said that millions of people admired Singh and would “remember him with the utmost pride.” Other Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge, joined in paying their tributes.
President Droupadi Murmu honored Singh for his “service to the nation” and his “unblemished political life.” She said his passing was a great loss for the country.
Business leaders also shared their condolences. Gautam Adani, the chairman of the Adani Group, praised Singh for his crucial role in the 1991 economic reforms that opened up India’s economy. He described Singh as a “rare leader who spoke softly but achieved monumental strides through his actions.” Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises, called Singh “a true statesman” and an “architect of economic reforms.”
State leaders across the country expressed their sorrow. Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared a seven-day state mourning in honor of the former Prime Minister. The Union Government also declared a seven-day mourning, during which the National Flag will be flown at half-mast. There will be no official entertainment during this period, and all Indian missions abroad have been asked to observe the same.
In addition, the Congress party announced the cancellation of all official events, including its foundation day celebrations, for the next seven days. The Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said the party’s activities would resume on January 3, 2025.
Former leaders from around the world also mourned Singh’s passing. Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai called Singh “one of India’s most illustrious sons,” while former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed described him as a “benevolent father figure.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s last rites will be held on Saturday, December 28, in New Delhi. The funeral will be conducted with full state honors. His body was brought to his residence on Thursday night, where it will be placed for the public to pay their respects. The Indian Cabinet will also meet on Friday at 11 AM to pay their tributes to Singh, who will always be remembered for his pivotal role in shaping India’s economic future.
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