The Congress Working Committee met on December 27, 2024, to adopt a condolence resolution at the passing away of former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh at the AICC Headquarters, New Delhi.
Condolence Resolution by the Congress Working Committee on the Passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh
The Congress Working Committee mourns the loss of a true statesman, Dr. Manmohan Singh, whose life and work have profoundly shaped the destiny of India. Dr. Singh was a towering figure in India’s political and economic landscape, whose contributions transformed the country and earned him respect worldwide. As Finance Minister in the early l990s, Dr. Singh was the architect of India’s economic liberalization. With unmatched foresight, he initiated a series of reforms that not only saved the nation from a balance-of-payments crisis but also opened the doors to global markets. Through his policies of deregulation, privatization, and the encouragement of foreign investment, he laid the foundation for India’s rapid economic growth. Under his stewardship, India emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, a testament to his brilliance and vision.
As the 13th Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh led the country with a sense of calm determination and exceptional wisdom. His tenure was marked by sustained economic growth, global recognition, and social progress. He steered the nation through the challenges of the global financial crisis in 2008 with strategic measures that shielded India from its worst effects. His leadership saw remarkable initiatives like MGNREGA, Right to Education, the historic Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Deal, National Food Security Act, Land Acquisition Act, Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme, and the 93rd Constitutional Amendment that advanced social justice for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBCs through Article 15(5). He also championed the Right to Information (RTI) Act to enhance transparency, the Forest Rights Act to empower tribal communities, and contributed to achieving the highest GDP growth rate during his tenure. Dr. Singh’s dedication to inclusive growth, international diplomacy, and economic modernization strengthened India’s position in the global arena, while simultaneously focusing on the welfare of the common man. His legacy as a compassionate, reformist leader who prioritized stability and development will forever be etched in India’s history.
Beyond his contributions as a politician, Dr. Singh was a respected academician, whose career as an economist helped shape India’s policies and direction. His scholarly work as an economist and his service at institutions like the United Nations and the Reserve Bank of India laid the groundwork for many of the economic reforms he later championed as a policymaker. Dr. Singh’s profound understanding of economies, combined with his dedication to education, inspired countless students, scholars, and policymakers. His academic rigor and intellectual contributions were pivotal in shaping India’s approach to development, and his mentorship has had a lasting impact on the country’s future economists. Dr. Singh was a man of extraordinary personal qualities. His grace, humility, and dignity set him apart as a leader of rare character. Despite holding the highest offices in the land, he always remained grounded, treating everyone with respect and kindness. His demeanor was calm, composed, and always guided by a deep sense of integrity. He was not only admired for his intellect and accomplishments but also for his unassuming nature, which made him beloved to people across all walks of life. Dr. Singh embodied the very best qualities of a true statesman—compassion, honesty, and a deep commitment to public service. His life was a living example of how grace and humility can coexist with great power. As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary leader, the Congress Working Committee pledges to honor Dr. Manmohan Singh’s memory and carry forward his enduring legacy. His vision of economic reform, social justice, and inclusive growth will continue to inspire and guide us. The ideals he stood for—integrity, diligence, and compassion—will remain a beacon for future generations. We commit to upholding his values as we work towards building a more prosperous and united India, just as he envisioned. Dr. Singh’s legacy as a leader, an economist, and a humble human being will live on, inspiring all of us to contribute to the continued progress and betterment of our great nation.
Message of Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge
Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji! With the passing of the Former Prime Minister, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature. His policy of Economic Liberalisation and Rights-based welfare paradigm profoundly transformed the lives of crores of Indians, virtually creating a Middle Class in India and lifting crores out of poverty. I mourn the loss of a lifelong senior colleague, a gentle intellectual and a humble soul who embodied the aspirations of India, having risen through the ranks with unwavering dedication. I am proud to have been a part of his Cabinet as Labour Minister, Railway Minister and Social Welfare Minister. A man of action rather than words, his immense contribution to nation-building will forever be etched in the annals of Indian history. In this moment of sorrow, I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers. May they get the strength to overcome this huge loss. His enduring legacy of ushering in India’s growth, welfare, and policies of inclusivity will forever be cherished. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Message of CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi:-
In Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing, we have lost a leader who was the epitome of wisdom, nobility and humility, who served our country with all his heart and mind. A luminous and beloved guiding light for the Congress Party, his compassion and vision transformed and empowered the lives of millions of Indians. He was loved by the people of India for his pure heart and fine mind. His advice, wise counsel and views were eagerly sought and deeply valued across the political spectrum in our country. Respected and admired by leaders and scholars all over the world, he was hailed as a statesman of immense wisdom and stature. Dr. Manmohan Singh brought brilliance and distinction to every high office that he held. And he brought pride and honour to India. For me, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s death is a deeply personal loss. He was my friend, philosopher and guide. He was so gentle in his manner but so resolute in his deeply held convictions. His commitment to social justice, secularism and democratic values was deep and unwavering. To spend any time with him, was to come away enlightened by his knowledge and sagacity, moved by his honesty and integrity, and awed by his genuine humility. He leaves a void in our national life that can never be filled. We in the Congress Party, and the people of India will forever be proud and grateful that we had a leader like Dr. Manmohan Singh whose contributions to India’s progress and development are immeasurable.
Immediately after the death of Dr. Manmohan Singh, Leader of Opposition (LS) Shri Rahul Gandhi tweeted:
Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride.