Dr Farooq, Mehbooba pay tributes to Dr. Manmohan Singh

27 December 2024

Srinagar: National Conference patriarch and former parliament member Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Friday paid heartfelt tributes to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away earlier that morning in New Delhi. Remembering the towering statesman, Abdullah lauded Singh’s unmatched contributions to the nation and called for his unfinished work to be carried forward.

Manmohan Singh an Indian politician, economist, academician, and bureaucrat served as the prime minister of India from 2004 to 2014. He was the fourth longest-serving prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi.

“I hope that the work he left unfinished will be carried forward by us and others, so we can take the nation further while fostering brotherhood with other countries,” Abdullah said while addressing the press at his Gupkar residence.

Highlighting Singh’s efforts for the Kashmiri Pandit community, he said, “The measures he took for our Pandit brothers, who left this place, should continue. He made efforts to bring them back and resolve their difficulties. Over 3,000 jobs were created for their children, enabling them to return home. A colony like Jagti was established where they could live peacefully until they could return.”

Highlighting the rarity of leaders like Singh, Abdullah quoted poet Iqbal: “High vision, intense passion, and long journeys are the hallmarks of the caravan leader.” He added, “Individuals like Dr. Manmohan Singh are rare, and those who work hard are often criticized. I pray to God for peace for his family, his spouse, and his children, so they may bear their sorrow. We should never forget the sacrifices he made for this nation.”

He praised Singh’s legacy of inclusivity and unity, saying, “His contributions to the nation are unmatched, and though he is no longer with us, every eye is tearful at his passing. The role he played in his life, without prejudice or bias, sets an example. Future governments must learn from his legacy. It will be challenging to fill this void, not just for Congress but for the entire nation.”

“Leaders like him are rare in the world. His legacy is unparalleled. Dr. Manmohan Singh will be remembered for striving to keep the nation united, spreading love, and even promoting harmony with our neighbors. One day, God willing, the time will come. Dr. Singh may not be with us, but his work and efforts remain.”

*Mehbooba Mufti’s Tribute*

Peoples Democratic Party President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also mourned Singh’s demise, calling him a statesman of unparalleled dignity, wisdom, and integrity.

“The JKPDP deeply mourns the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, a statesman of unparalleled dignity, wisdom, and integrity. As a leader, he exemplified humility and grace, steering India through critical economic and political challenges with unmatched resolve and vision,” Mufti said in her tribute. She credited Singh with ushering in stability, progress, and inclusivity during his tenure.

“Dr. Singh’s legacy as an architect of modern India will continue to inspire generations. His profound contributions to the nation will remain etched in history. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” she added.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime Minister, served two terms from 2004 to 2014. Known for his humility, intellect, and groundbreaking economic reforms, his demise marks the end of an era in Indian politics.

—(KNO)