Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92, after suffering from age-related health issues. Singh lost consciousness at his home earlier on the same day and was urgently taken to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Despite immediate resuscitative efforts, he was declared dead at 9:51 PM local time.
Known as the architect of major economic reforms, Singh served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. His tenure was marked by significant economic growth, positioning India as one of the leading global economies. Singh was revered for his integrity and dedication to the nation's development, standing out as one of the country's most respected leaders.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the nation's grief, stating, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji.” Modi highlighted Singh’s humble beginnings and remarkable rise to prominence, reflecting on his contributions to improving the lives of many Indians.
Singh's passing has garnered responses from various political leaders. Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition Congress party, described Singh as “a mentor and guide,” noting his wisdom and integrity throughout his leadership. Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition, added, “India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature.”
Singh, born in 1932 in what is now Pakistan, paved his path to prominence through education, earning degrees from Cambridge and Oxford. He initially entered public service as India's Finance Minister under P.V. Narasimha Rao’s government, where he played a pivotal role during the economic crisis of the 1990s. His policies during this time set the foundation for India’s rapid economic growth.
Throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, Singh was also credited with sealing India's landmark nuclear deal with the United States, which significantly enhanced India's energy capabilities and global standing. Despite these achievements, his later years as Prime Minister were shadowed by allegations of corruption linked to various scandals, including the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Former President Droupadi Murmu also shared her condolences, stating, “He will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life, and his utmost humility.”
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised Singh’s commitment to secularism and democracy, citing his ability to engage constructively with critics during his liberalization efforts. He remarked, “The neoliberal policies introduced by the P.V. Narasimha Rao government, of which Manmohan Singh was part, shook up the Indian economic Landscape.”
Singh’s retirement from politics after his last term was marked by his low profile, but his legacy as a prominent figure with enduring respect among Indian citizens remains intact. He had retired from the Rajya Sabha, representing Rajasthan, earlier this year and had shared the stage with Prime Minister Modi, who previously said, “Whenever our democracy will be mentioned, he will be one of those few esteemed members whose contribution will always be remembered.”
Dr. Singh's death creates a significant void in Indian politics, echoed by the outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. His impact on India's economic growth, international relations, and commitment to democratic values will be fondly remembered by many. Singh's cautious, technocratic style of governance left behind both successes and challenges, shaping the future of India’s political and economic landscapes.
