January 2025

LONDON REMEMBERS MANMOHAN SINGH

Among the speakers  were the former Member of Parliament, Virendra Sharma, journalist Ashis Ray and local councillors. They were unanimous in saying that Dr. Singh will be remembered for his honesty, integrity, dignity, humility and overall for being a kind-hearted human being.
 
Speakers recalled instances which highlighted how he eschewed the trappings which come with high office. For example, on one occasion when he was running late for an appointment, rather than instructing the driver of his official car to cut through heavy traffic in Delhi, he left the vehicle and walked along a side path which led to the PM’s office.
Prime_Minister,_Manmohan_Singh
Late Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh
What was remarkable was the warmth among those present who were united by admiration for a man who was respected internationally for his academic credentials and wisdom in steering India first as Finance Minister when he launched far-reaching economic reforms in 1991. Recalling his tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh was most proud of the signing of the nuclear deal with the U.S.
 
Dr. Singh had not sought to be Prime Minister, the position came to him after Sonia Gandhi, his mentor,  declined to take on the role. Throughout his life, Dr. Singh remained modest and unassuming and sought to unite rather than divide. It was heartening that leaders from all Indian and international political groups paid homage to an inspiring and humble leader.