India is mourning the loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister who passed away on Thursday evening at the age of 92. Leaders from across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, visited his residence in Delhi on Friday to pay their respects. The solemn occasion comes as the nation grapples with the loss of one of its most respected statesmen.
A Final Goodbye Amid National Mourning
Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime Minister, breathed his last at 9:51 PM on Thursday at AIIMS, Delhi. The 92-year-old leader, who had been battling age-related ailments, lost consciousness at his Delhi residence and was rushed to AIIMS around 8 PM. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he was declared dead later that evening.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Dr. Singh’s residence in the capital on Friday morning to pay their last respects. Amid light showers, the two leaders laid floral wreaths on the late leader’s mortal remains, offering condolences to his grieving family.
Union Minister JP Nadda also joined in paying homage. Visuals of the leaders paying tribute have surfaced online, capturing the gravity of the moment.
Last Rites Await Daughter’s Arrival
The last rites of the former Prime Minister are scheduled for Saturday. According to Congress leader KC Venugopal, the precise timing of the ceremony will be announced once Dr. Singh’s daughter arrives from abroad. Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit confirmed that the schedule would be finalized after her arrival in the evening.
In a gesture of respect, the Government of India has canceled all official programs for the day and declared a seven-day period of national mourning. Flags will be flown at half-mast during this time, and no official celebrations will be held.
Public Homage at AICC Headquarters
The Congress party has announced that Dr. Manmohan Singh’s mortal remains will be placed at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters in Delhi for public homage on Saturday morning. The ‘last darshan’ is scheduled between 8:00 and 10:00 AM, allowing party leaders, supporters, and citizens to bid farewell to the visionary leader. Prominent Congress figures, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, are expected to pay their respects before the final rites are conducted.
Remembering a Visionary Leader
Dr. Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, earning a reputation for his integrity, intellect, and commitment to economic reform. His tenure saw transformative changes in India’s economic and social landscape, solidifying his legacy as one of the nation’s most impactful leaders.
As India bids farewell to this towering figure, the void left by his passing is deeply felt across the nation. The upcoming days will see a series of ceremonies honoring his memory and contributions.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His contributions to the nation remain unparalleled, and his absence will be profoundly felt. As the nation gathers to honor him, one question resonates: How will India remember the legacy of this iconic leader?
