New Delhi, December 28, 2024: Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, has accused the government of disrespecting former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He said the government insulted Singh by not giving him a special place for his last rites.
On Friday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking the government to select a proper site for Singh’s funeral and a memorial to honor him. In response, the government said a decision to build a memorial had already been made, and a trust would be formed to finalize the location.
Rahul Gandhi’s Statement
Rahul Gandhi posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the government disrespected Singh by performing his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat. He called Singh a "great son of Mother India" and highlighted his contributions as India’s first Sikh Prime Minister.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, the first Sikh Prime Minister, was insulted by the government by holding his funeral at Nigambodh Ghat. He was the PM for 10 years, during which India became an economic superpower. His policies still help the poor and backward classes,” Gandhi said.
He added that past Prime Ministers were given designated sites for their last rites, so people could pay their respects easily. “Dr. Singh deserved the highest respect and a proper memorial,” Gandhi said, urging the government to honor Singh properly.
Congress Leaders Criticize the Government
Other Congress leaders also criticized the government. Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore questioned why Singh wasn’t given the same honor as former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had a designated memorial. “Why this difference? Such treatment is very upsetting,” Tagore said.
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera called the funeral arrangements poorly managed. He claimed that only three chairs were arranged for Singh’s family, and Congress leaders had to intervene to get proper seating for his daughters.
Khera also alleged that:
- The Prime Minister and other ministers didn’t stand during the gun salute or when the National Flag was handed to Singh’s widow.
- The family was not given enough space near the pyre.
- Home Minister Amit Shah’s motorcade disrupted the funeral, forcing family members to wait outside.
Manmohan Singh’s State Funeral
Manmohan Singh was cremated with full state honors at Nigambodh Ghat. Many political leaders, along with his family, attended the ceremony. However, the handling of his funeral sparked criticism, with Congress leaders accusing the government of not respecting Singh’s legacy.
Singh’s Contributions to India
Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. Known for his calm and humble nature, he played a key role in transforming India’s economy. His leadership during the global financial crisis in 2008 is especially remembered.
Singh passed away at the age of 92 on December 27, 2024. His policies and contributions to India’s progress earned him respect worldwide.
Memorial Plans
The government clarified that it will build a memorial to honor Singh. A trust will be formed to decide the location, but it might take some time.
While the political debate continues, many believe that Manmohan Singh’s legacy should be honored with dignity and respect, reflecting his contributions to India’s growth and development.
