The Congress party strongly criticized the government for holding Dr. Manmohan Singh’s last rites at Nigambodh Ghat. They argued that this decision was an insult to India’s first Sikh Prime Minister.
Congress Pushes for a Memorial
Jairam Ramesh, voicing his discontent, said, “The people of our country are simply unable to understand why the Government of India could not find a location for his cremation and memorial.” Furthermore, he revealed that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had requested PM Narendra Modi to choose a venue suitable for a memorial honoring Dr. Singh.
Leaders Express Dissatisfaction
Similarly, Manish Tewari expressed his disappointment with the decision, calling it “extremely unfortunate.” He argued that Dr. Singh deserved a farewell at a location where other former Prime Ministers had been cremated. He added, “If his family wanted this, it’s different. Otherwise, his cremation should have been done at a more appropriate place.”
In addition, Alka Lamba accused the government of showing disrespect. She wrote, “Manmohan Singh ji’s funeral should have been conducted with respect and without controversy. What sort of revenge is this, even after his death?”
Kharge’s Appeal to PM Modi
Meanwhile, Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to PM Modi, urging him to allow a memorial for Dr. Singh. He highlighted Dr. Singh’s pivotal role in pulling India out of economic crises. Moreover, he quoted former US President Barack Obama, who said, “Whenever the Indian Prime Minister speaks, the whole world listens to him.”
Kharge also emphasized that Dr. Singh’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a global leader was inspirational. Therefore, he argued that a memorial would serve as a fitting tribute.
Government’s Announcement
On the other hand, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the funeral would take place at Nigambodh Ghat on December 28, 2024. Dr. Singh passed away at AIIMS, New Delhi, on December 26, 2024. The government confirmed that a state funeral with full military honors would be conducted.
Remembering Dr. Singh’s Legacy
Dr. Singh, born on September 26, 1932, served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. Additionally, he was a respected economist and served as the RBI Governor from 1982 to 1985. Earlier this year, he retired from the Rajya Sabha after 33 years of service.
Overall, Congress leaders insisted that Dr. Singh deserved a more dignified farewell. Consequently, the debate over the government’s decision continues.
