New Delhi: The controversy surrounding the location for the funeral of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh continues as the Congress Party and various political figures call for a more fitting tribute. The government has confirmed it will allocate land for a memorial to Singh, but the site for his last rites has become a point of contention.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a statement on December 28 confirming that space will be allocated for a memorial to the former Prime Minister. This decision followed a request made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Union Home Minister Amit Shah communicated the government’s plan to the family of Manmohan Singh shortly after a Cabinet meeting. The government has made it clear that while the memorial space will be allocated, a Trust must be formed first, and this will take time.
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Congress pushes for a memorial at a major location
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the need for Dr. Singh’s memorial to be built at a place where his funeral is conducted, in line with past traditions for former Prime Ministers. He pointed out that Dr manmohan Singh, revered for his leadership and economic reforms, deserved a memorial at a prominent site, echoing the importance of a befitting tribute for his monumental contributions to India.
Despite the government's announcement of a state funeral with full military honors, to be held at 11:45 am on December 28 at Nigambodh Ghat, political leaders have expressed their discontent with this choice. The Congress Party, along with several others, argues that the location is unsuitable for a leader of Manmohan Singh's stature, citing the tradition of former Prime Ministers being honored with memorials at places like Raj Ghat.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal joined the controversy, claiming that the central government had declined the Singh family’s request for a more fitting funeral site. He suggested that the government’s refusal to allow the funeral to take place at a location suitable for a memorial, such as Raj Ghat, was disrespectful to Dr Manmohan Singh’s legacy. Badal criticised the government for its actions, which he described as “inexplicable” given Dr Manmohan Singh’s global stature.
Dr Manmohan Singh, who passed away at 92 due to age-related health complications, served as India's Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. Known for his economic reforms and steady leadership, Singh played a crucial role in India's development and global positioning. The location of his memorial continues to be a point of contention, with calls for it to reflect his significant contributions to the country.
With inputs from Agencies
Published: 28 Dec 2024, 11:15 am IST
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