The death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday has left a profound void in the political, economic, and intellectual fabric of India. The two-time Prime Minister, a globally respected economist and a beacon of integrity, passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, after a distinguished career that spanned decades of public service. His demise has evoked heartfelt tributes from leaders across the political spectrum, with many hailing him as one of India’s finest statesmen.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, calling Singh “one of India’s most distinguished leaders” and praising his rise from modest beginnings to becoming a transformative figure in Indian politics. Modi highlighted Singh's significant contributions as a policymaker, economist, and Prime Minister, particularly during pivotal moments in India’s history. He acknowledged Singh’s insightful interventions in Parliament and his relentless commitment to improving the lives of Indian citizens. “His thoughts, wisdom, and vision will continue to guide our nation,” Modi said, extending his condolences to Singh’s family and admirers.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reflected on Singh’s profound impact, describing him as a “gentle man in the rough world of politics” who inspired respect and admiration from allies and adversaries alike. She lauded his honesty, egalitarian spirit, and unwavering resolve to serve the nation even in the face of relentless personal and political attacks. "Few people inspire the kind of respect that Sardar Manmohan Singh ji did. His legacy of wisdom, courage, and selfless service will continue to stand tall,” Priyanka wrote in a moving tribute.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, known for her fierce independence in politics, also expressed deep sorrow, calling Singh a leader of unparalleled intellect and grace. She noted how his calm demeanor often belied the strength and resolve with which he led the country through challenging times, particularly during his tenure as Prime Minister.
Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda hailed Singh as a "pioneer of economic reforms in India" and a “great economist of the world,” emphasizing his critical role in ushering India into an era of liberalization and growth. Hooda credited Singh for his transformative policies that strengthened India’s economic foundation, calling his loss “irreparable” and difficult to compensate.
Omar Abdullah, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, shared a personal tribute, describing Singh as an “intellectual giant” and a “giant among pygmies.” Abdullah expressed his gratitude for having had the opportunity to learn from Singh, whose humility, intellect, and vision left an enduring impression on all who interacted with him. "India has lost a son, a statesman, and a true patriot,” Abdullah remarked.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including Atishi and Raghav Chadha, joined the chorus of condolences, underscoring Singh’s role in transforming India’s economic landscape and statesmanlike governance approach. Many leaders across the spectrum emphasized how his leadership style, marked by quiet determination and intellectual rigor, provided a stark contrast to the noisy, divisive politics of the modern era.
Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister was defined by remarkable achievements and unprecedented challenges. His leadership during the 2008 global financial crisis helped shield India’s economy from severe shocks, while his steadfast support for the India–US Civil Nuclear Agreement cemented India’s position as a responsible nuclear power on the global stage. These milestones, coupled with his economic liberalization efforts as Finance Minister in the 1990s, have made him a towering figure in India’s post-independence history.
Despite the criticisms and challenges he faced during his second term as Prime Minister, including allegations of policy paralysis and corruption scandals within his government, Singh’s integrity remained beyond reproach. His contributions to landmark initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and farm debt relief programs reflect his enduring commitment to addressing India’s social and economic inequities.
As tributes continue to pour in, Singh’s legacy as a leader who combined intellectual brilliance with moral uprightness resonates deeply with the nation. His vision for a progressive, inclusive India and his ability to balance economic ambition with social welfare leave an indelible mark on the country’s history. The gentle, unassuming leader who transformed India’s economic and political trajectory will forever be remembered as a guiding light for future generations.
