Government Declares 7 Day Mourning After Manmohan Singh’s Death

Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as one of India’s most accomplished economists and a former prime minister, passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday night at AIIMS Delhi.

Singh’s illustrious career in the Indian government began in 1971 when he served as an economic advisor in the commerce ministry. In recent years, he had been battling health challenges.

Born in Punjab in 1932, Singh held the office of prime minister for two consecutive terms, from 2004 to 2014. Earlier this year, he concluded a remarkable 33-year tenure in the Rajya Sabha, marking his retirement from the Upper House.

His passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from leaders worldwide, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Barack Obama, as well as from citizens across the globe.

Former PM Manmohan Singh Passes Away: Key Updates

1. Manmohan Singh’s Passing
   Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday night at AIIMS Delhi. Rushed to the hospital after a sudden loss of consciousness at home, he was admitted in critical condition but could not be revived. AIIMS announced his death at 9:51 PM on December 26.
2. PM Modi’s Tribute
   Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Singh, calling him one of India’s “most distinguished leaders” and highlighting his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected economist. Modi remarked on Singh’s “wisdom and humility” and later visited his residence alongside Union Home Minister Amit Shah to offer condolences.
3. Rahul Gandhi and Congress Leaders’ Condolences
   Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi called Singh his “mentor and guide,” noting that millions admired the former prime minister. Other Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge, also mourned his loss.
4. President Droupadi Murmu’s Statement
   President Droupadi Murmu described Singh as a leader known for his “service to the nation, unblemished political life, and utmost humility,” adding that his death is a significant loss to the country.
5. Tributes from Industrialists
   Industrialists like Gautam Adani and Harsh Goenka expressed their sorrow. Adani credited Singh with playing a “pivotal role” in the 1991 economic reforms, describing him as a leader who achieved monumental strides with quiet determination. Goenka hailed him as a “true statesman” and an “architect of economic reforms.”
6. State Mourning Declared
   Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a seven-day state mourning as a mark of respect. Chief ministers across the country remembered Singh as a respected economist and leader whose loss is deeply felt.
7. Global Reactions
   Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai called Singh “one of India’s most illustrious sons,” while former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed referred to him as a “benevolent father figure” and a friend of Maldives.
8. Congress Cancels Programmes
   The Congress party announced the cancellation of all official programmes, including its foundation day celebrations, for seven days. Its ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan Rally’ in Karnataka was also postponed, with events resuming on January 3, 2025.
9. National Mourning Declared
   The Union government announced a seven-day national mourning period. During this time, the National Flag will fly at half-mast across India, and there will be no official entertainment. Indian missions abroad will also observe the mourning, and a Cabinet meeting is scheduled on Friday to honor Singh.
10. Last Rites Arrangements
    Manmohan Singh’s last rites will be performed with full state honors in New Delhi on Saturday. His mortal remains were brought to his residence, 3 Motilal Nehru Marg, where they will be placed for the public to pay their respects, according to ANI. An official statement on the funeral details will be released soon.