Manmohan Singh, India’s Former Prime Minister, Cremated After State Funeral
Ex-PM Singh Cremated After State Funeral, Politicians and Public Mourn His Death
Manmohan Singh, the former Indian prime minister widely regarded as the architect of the country’s economic reform program, was cremated after a state funeral on Saturday as politicians and the public mourned his death.
The veteran leader, who was also credited for a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, died late Thursday at age 92.
Singh’s body was taken Saturday morning to the headquarters of his Congress party in New Delhi, where party leaders and activists paid tributes to him and chanted “Manmohan Singh lives forever.”
Abhishek Bishnoi, a party leader, said Singh’s death was a big loss for the country. “He used to speak little, but his talent and his actions spoke louder than his words,” he said.
Later, Singh’s body was transported to a crematorium ground for his last rites as soldiers beat drums.
Government Officials, Politicians, and Family Members Pay Last Respects
Government officials, politicians, and family members paid their last respects to Singh, whose casket was adorned with flowers and wrapped in the Indian flag. Security personnel honored him with a ceremonial gun salute.
Indian President Draupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called Singh one of the country’s “most distinguished leaders,” and several cabinet ministers participated in the funeral ceremony.
Condolences Pour In
U.S. President Joe Biden in a condolence statement called Singh a true statesman and a dedicated public servant who “charted pathbreaking progress that will continue to strengthen our nations — and the world — for generations to come.”
“The unprecedented level of co-operation between the United States and India today would not have been possible without the prime minister’s strategic vision and political courage,” Biden said.
Conclusion
Manmohan Singh’s passing is a significant loss for India, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come. His contributions to India’s economic reforms and his leadership will be remembered as a significant chapter in the country’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Manmohan Singh’s background?
Manmohan Singh was the former Prime Minister of India, serving from 2004 to 2014. He was also the leader of the Congress party in Parliament’s upper house.
What were some of his notable achievements?
Singh was credited with introducing economic reforms that moved India away from a socialist-patterned economy and toward a capitalist model. He also signed a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, giving India access to American nuclear technology.
What was his relationship with the US?
Singh’s relationship with the US was significant, and he played a key role in strengthening ties between the two countries. He was credited with charting a new course in India-US relations, and his efforts led to increased cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, and technology.