Avinash Azad
In a somber moment for the nation, the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at the age of 92 has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from across political and ideological lines. Leaders took to X (formerly Twitter) to honor the statesman, economist, and visionary who left an indelible mark on India’s political and economic landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, lauding Singh’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected economist and Prime Minister. “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi posted on X.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed personal grief, calling Singh his mentor and guide. “Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” Gandhi wrote.
Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, reflected on his interactions with Singh, describing him as a “giant among pygmies.” He tweeted, “Very sorry to hear about the demise of former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh. He was an intellectual giant, an accomplished economist, but above all, he was a thorough gentleman. India has lost a great son with his passing. Rest in peace, sir.”
Adding a deeply personal recollection, former IPS officer and current UP Minister Asim Arun shared his experiences as Singh’s bodyguard. “Dr. Manmohan Singh had only one personal car—a Maruti 800—parked behind the gleaming black BMW at the Prime Minister’s residence. He always looked at it longingly, reaffirming his belief: ‘I am a middle-class man, and it is my duty to care for the common man.’” Arun’s tribute highlighted Singh’s humility even in the corridors of power.
Hurriyat Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq acknowledged Singh’s sincere efforts toward dialogue and peace in Kashmir. “He believed in open borders and lasting peace with neighbors and engaged with us in Hurriyat with an open mind. A statesman committed to harmony and resolution,” Farooq posted, adding that Singh’s efforts for Kashmir will remain a cherished legacy.
From beyond India’s borders, World leaders are sending condolence messages in honor of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai expressed his condolences, calling Singh “an unwavering ally and friend to the people of Afghanistan.” Karzai posted, “India has lost one of its most illustrious sons. I profoundly mourn his passing and extend my deepest condolences to his family, the government, and the people of India.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leaves behind a legacy of economic reforms, social policies, and a steadfast belief in dialogue and peace. As tributes continue to pour in, his life stands as a testament to humility, intellect, and dedication to the nation.
