New Delhi: Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India and a towering figure in Indian politics, passed away at the age of 92 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Dr. Singh was admitted to AIIMS in critical condition around 8 p.m. following a sudden loss of consciousness at his residence. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts at home and at the hospital, he was pronounced dead at 9:51 p.m., as confirmed by an AIIMS medical bulletin.
Dr. Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. A two-term Prime Minister, he led the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government from 2004 to 2014. Known as the architect of India’s landmark 1991 economic reforms during his tenure as Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in reshaping India’s economic trajectory.
As a mark of respect, the Union government has declared a seven-day national mourning, during which all official functions stand cancelled. The Union Cabinet will convene on Friday to adopt a condolence resolution, and Dr. Singh’s last rites will be conducted with full state honors.
Tributes Pour In
President Droupadi Murmu hailed Dr. Singh as “one of the greatest sons of Bharat” in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter). “Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who bridged academia and administration seamlessly. His critical contributions to reforming the Indian economy and his unblemished political life will always be remembered. His passing is an irreparable loss,” she wrote, extending her condolences to his family and admirers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his predecessor, praising Dr. Singh’s wisdom, humility, and contributions to India’s economic policies. “Rising from humble origins, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji became a respected economist and statesman. As our Prime Minister, he worked tirelessly to improve lives. India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders,” PM Modi said in his tribute on X.
Congress Leaders Pay Homage
Congress leaders, including party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi, were among the first to reach AIIMS upon hearing of Dr. Singh’s hospitalisation. In a post on X, Mr. Kharge described him as a “visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature.” He added, “Dr. Singh’s policy of economic liberalisation and rights-based welfare profoundly transformed the lives of crores of Indians. His immense contribution to nation-building will forever be etched in history.”
Rahul Gandhi paid a personal tribute, recalling Dr. Singh as a mentor and guide. “Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and understanding of economics inspired the nation. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with pride. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family,” he posted.
A Legacy Remembered
Known for his gentle demeanor and incisive intellect, Dr. Singh’s leadership left a lasting imprint on India. His economic reforms in 1991 are credited with ushering in a new era of liberalisation that transformed India into a global economic player. As Prime Minister, he steered the nation through significant challenges with quiet determination, earning widespread respect across political lines.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era. Tributes from across the nation reflect his enduring legacy as a statesman, reformer, and a symbol of humility and service.
