Manmohan Singh Passes Away: Tributes Pour in from BJP Leaders for Former Prime Minister

 Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, a towering figure in Indian politics and economics, passed away on Thursday night at the age of 92 due to age-related complications. Leaders across the political spectrum mourned his demise, with several prominent members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) paying heartfelt tributes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who succeeded Dr. Singh in 2014, hailed him as one of India's "most distinguished leaders" and commended his rise from humble beginnings. In a message on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he became a respected economist and served in various government positions, including as Finance Minister, leaving a lasting impact on India's economic policies. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people's lives. His interventions in Parliament were insightful, and his contributions will always be remembered."

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal described Dr. Singh as a "political stalwart" whose wisdom, humility, and dedication to public service earned him respect across the political spectrum. In a tribute, he stated, "His wisdom and dedication to public service will be remembered for generations."

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted Dr. Singh's pivotal role in shaping India's economic trajectory, particularly through the liberalization reforms of 1991. She said, "As Governor of the RBI and later as Finance Minister, Dr. Singh was instrumental in liberalizing the Indian economy. Soft-spoken and gentle, he was respected by all."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath referred to Dr. Singh as a renowned economist and an irreplaceable loss to Indian politics. He remarked, "As Finance Minister and later as Prime Minister, he played a significant role in shaping India's governance."

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed these sentiments, stating, "India has lost a great scholar, economist, and statesman with the demise of former PM Manmohan Singh."

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri paid homage, emphasizing Dr. Singh's thoughtful and cerebral leadership. "His contribution during his tenure as Finance Minister and his stewardship as Prime Minister will be remembered with gratitude and affection by all Indians," he said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also lauded Dr. Singh's efforts in advancing India's development and offered their condolences to his family and admirers.

The central government has announced a seven-day national mourning period in honor of the former Prime Minister. His last rites will be conducted on Saturday with full state honors, and the national flag will be flown at half-mast during this period.

Dr. Manmohan Singh's demise marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of economic reforms, political wisdom, and unyielding service to the nation.