Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Passes Away: Government Announces 7-Day Mourning

Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister and one of India’s most esteemed economists, passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday night at AIIMS Delhi. His remarkable journey in public service began in 1971 as an Economic Advisor in the Commerce Ministry. Born in Punjab in 1932, Dr. Singh served as India’s Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014. Earlier this year, he retired from the Rajya Sabha, concluding a distinguished 33-year tenure in the Upper House. Dr. Singh had been grappling with health issues for some time. On Thursday night, he was rushed to AIIMS after losing consciousness at home. Despite being admitted to the emergency department in critical condition, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, and the hospital declared his demise at 9:51 PM on December 26.

Leaders across India and the world expressed their grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dr. Singh as one of India’s “most distinguished leaders,” praising his rise from modest beginnings to a respected economist and statesman. Modi also highlighted Dr. Singh’s wisdom and humility. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called him a “mentor and guide,” stating that millions would remember him with pride. Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge also paid their tributes.

President Droupadi Murmu lauded Dr. Singh’s unblemished political career and dedicated service to the nation, calling his passing a significant loss. Prominent industrialists like Gautam Adani and Harsh Goenka also mourned his demise. Adani credited him for the transformative 1991 economic reforms, describing him as a “rare leader” who achieved monumental changes through quiet determination. Goenka called him a “true statesman” and an “architect of economic reforms.” State Chief Ministers echoed these sentiments. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect. On the global stage, former Afghan President Hamid Karzai called him one of India’s most illustrious sons, while ex-Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed remembered him as a benevolent figure and a friend to Maldives. The Congress Party announced a suspension of all official events, including its foundation day celebrations, for the next seven days. The ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan Rally’ scheduled in Karnataka’s Belgaum was also canceled. Congress leader KC Venugopal stated that party activities would resume on January 3, 2025.

The Union Government declared a seven-day national mourning, during which the National Flag will fly at half-mast across India and at all Indian missions abroad. Official entertainment has been suspended for the mourning period. A special Cabinet meeting is scheduled for Friday to honor Dr. Singh’s contributions, especially his role as the architect of India’s economic reforms. Dr. Singh’s final rites will take place on Saturday in New Delhi, with full state honors. His mortal remains were brought to his residence at 3 Motilal Nehru Marg on Thursday night, where they will be kept for the public to pay their respects. An official statement regarding the funeral arrangements will be released soon.

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Aryan GulatiFreelance Journalist

Aryan Gulati is a dedicated media student based in Meerut with a wealth of experience in various newspapers and media houses. He has numerous published articles and specializes in political and crime news writing, demonstrating a strong commitment to impactful journalism.

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