‘Nation lost a gem’: Mehbooba pays tributes to Dr Manmohan Singh

Srinagar, Dec 27: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti along with other party leaders on Friday paid heartfelt tributes to former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at AIIMS, New Delhi yesterday evening.

Addressing a gathering at party headquarters in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti lauded former PM Manmohan Singh’s contributions to India and recalling her personal interactions with him during critical moments in the country’s history.

While paying rich tributes, the PDP president Mehbooba Mufti said that we have gathered here today to pay our last respects to former PM Manmohan Singh who died yesterday. The nation lost a gem.

“I didn’t know him for long, but I had heard about him that when entire world was facing worst ever economic crisis, it was Dr Manmohan Singh who prevented the nation from plunging into crisis. His role is unforgettable,” Mehbooba said.

Mehbooba shared personal anecdotes about Dr. Singh, emphasizing his unshakable confidence and calm demeanor even during the most testing times. She recounted her interactions with him during the formation of the PDP-Congress alliance in 2002, where his wisdom and steady hand played a crucial role in shaping a coalition amid a fragile political environment.

She described Dr. Singh as the architect of modern India’s economic transformation, recalling his visionary leadership during the liberalization, privatization, and globalization reforms that reshaped India in the early 1990s. “Dr. Manmohan Singh ushered India into a new era, setting the stage for growth and prosperity. From bringing bread and butter to the doorstep of the poorest through schemes like NREGA and the Food Security Act to securing the landmark nuclear deal, his contributions have touched every Indian,” she said.

She also highlighted Dr. Singh’s instrumental role in initiatives such as the Aadhaar program, which revolutionized access to essential services, and his efforts to bring global recognition to India on the largest platforms. She praised his ability to navigate the country through complex challenges, including the aftermath of the Sikh riots, for which he expressed an unprecedented public apology as Prime Minister, demonstrating his humility and statesmanship.

In a special mention of his approach to Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti credited Dr. Singh for his sensitivity and commitment to addressing the region’s pain and agony. “When Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Saab presented a vision for Jammu and Kashmir’s future, Dr. Manmohan Singh understood the gravity of the situation and ordered the formation of five working groups to address the issues. These reports, despite the hostile environment, remain relevant today as guiding documents for finding a constitutional solution to the region’s problems,” she said.

She expressed her admiration for Dr. Singh’s leadership during his decade-long tenure as Prime Minister, a period she described as one of unparalleled peace, development, and inclusivity. “While challenges loomed large, his government ensured stability and harmony. Today, when news of violence and discrimination against minorities dominates headlines, we must remember the environment of unity that prevailed under Dr. Singh’s leadership,” she remarked.

Mehbooba said, “Dr. Manmohan Singh’s era is unimaginable in its vision for peace, prosperity, and progress. His contributions to India and his values of humility, integrity, and inclusivity will continue to inspire generations to come. We mourn the loss of a statesman, a visionary, and above all, a great human being.”

The JKPDP extended heartfelt condolences to Dr. Singh’s family, friends, and admirers, praying for eternal peace for his noble soul.

Those who attended the condolence meet included party General Secretary Mohd Khursheed Alam , Ab Hameed Kosheen, Ab Qayoom Bhat, Mohd Yaseen Bhat, Arif Laigroo, Zuhaib Mir, Sheikh Saba, Shoqiya Qureshi, Tajamul Islam, Bashir Baig, Shafi Kundangar, Bilal Sofi, and others.