Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Cremation Sparks Political Controversy Over Memorial

Despite being a globally respected figure and living a life of simplicity, Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s former Prime Minister who served two consecutive terms, was cremated at Delhi’s Nigambodh Ghat, a common cremation ground, with full state honors and Sikh traditions on Saturday.

The cremation was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Congress Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, KC Venugopal, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, the chiefs of the armed forces, and several other central and state leaders. Many offered their condolences to Dr. Singh’s wife, Gursharan Kaur, his daughters, and other family members.

Memorial Debate Intensifies

A political row has erupted over the location of Dr. Singh’s cremation and demands for a dedicated memorial near Rajghat, similar to those of former Prime Ministers like Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to the Prime Minister and Home Minister, questioning why Dr. Singh was denied a dignified cremation site befitting his stature.

In response, the central government assured that land for a memorial would be provided and other formalities expedited. However, no satisfactory explanation was offered for cremating the eminent economist and global leader at a common cremation ground.

BJP and Opposition Exchange Barbs

BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi dismissed allegations, stating that the government is committed to honoring Dr. Singh appropriately and has initiated steps for building a memorial. Trivedi accused Congress of politicizing the matter, claiming they never truly respected Dr. Singh. He emphasized that under PM Modi, all leaders, regardless of party affiliation, are accorded due respect.

Adding fuel to the fire, Congress leaders, along with allies like Akali Dal, have criticized the BJP’s handling of the situation. Ashok Gehlot shared on social media that during the Congress regime, special sites were allocated for the cremation and memorials of leaders, citing examples like former Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray.

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring demanded immediate allocation of land for Dr. Singh’s memorial, questioning why a similar arrangement was not made for India’s only Sikh Prime Minister. Leaders like Sushil Kumar Shinde, DK Shivakumar, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and Mayawati have also expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s actions.

What Lies Ahead?

The political heat surrounding Dr. Manmohan Singh’s cremation and memorial continues to rise. It remains to be seen how swiftly the Modi government fulfills the formalities to meet public expectations and honor the legacy of this towering leader.