Manmohan Singh dies: PM Modi leads tributes for 'gentle man in rough world of politics'

The two-time PM died at Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Thursday. He was 92

Published: Thu 26 Dec 2024, 9:44 PM

Updated: Thu 26 Dec 2024, 10:18 PM

By
Web Desk

Former prime minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh died at Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Thursday. He was 92.

Hailed as the architect of India’s key economic reforms, Dr Singh was being treated for age-related medical conditions. "Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9.51pm," a statement from AIIMS said.

An outpouring of tributes from leaders across the political spectrum followed the death of the Congress veteran.

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Leading the tributes was Prime Minister Narendra Modi who said: "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders."

"Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful," the PM tweeted.

Twitter

Modi added that as Prime Minister "Manmohan Singh made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives".

Condoling the death, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi wrote: "Few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that Sardar Manmohan Singh ji did."

"His honesty will always be an inspiration for us and he will forever stand tall among those who truly love this country as someone who remained steadfast in his commitment to serve the nation despite being subjected to unfair and deeply personal attacks by his opponents.

He was genuinely egalitarian, wise, strongwilled and courageous until the end. A uniquely dignified and gentle man in the rough world of politics," posted Priyanka Gamdhi on Twitter.

Priyanka's brother and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also posted a heartfelt tribute.

"Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation... I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride," Rahul Gandhi tweeted.

Congress leader Sachin PIlot said it was "an honor to have worked with him in his cabinet".

"He was the quintessential gentleman - kind, soft spoken, courteous and humble. A scholar, a visionary, a consensus maker, and a true Congressman."

Mourning the loss, former Congress minister Salman Khurshid tweeted: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. His contributions to the nation and his dedication to public service will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones."

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