“We Live In Times That Are Largely Shaped By You”: Kharge Writes To Manmohan Singh As He Retires From Rajya Sabha

In a remarkable tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh upon his retirement from the Rajya Sabha after more than three decades of service, Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, penned a heartfelt letter commending Dr. Singh”s unparalleled dedication and contributions to the nation.

Kharge expressed profound gratitude, stating, “An era comes to an end as you retire today from the Rajya Sabha. Very few people can say they have served our nation with more dedication and more devotion than you. Very few people have accomplished as much as you for the nation and its people.”

Reflecting on their collaborative efforts during Dr. Singh”s tenure as Prime Minister, Kharge highlighted Dr. Singh”s invaluable wisdom and guidance, emphasizing his pivotal role in formulating economic policies that benefited all segments of society. Kharge lauded Dr. Singh”s inclusive approach, which facilitated the participation of the poor in the nation”s growth trajectory and uplifted millions out of poverty.

Kharge underscored Dr. Singh”s unwavering commitment to national security and sovereignty, citing his instrumental role in negotiating the Indo-US Nuclear Deal, a historic moment that propelled India onto the global stage. Despite facing political adversaries, Dr. Singh”s steadfast leadership and principled stance earned him respect and admiration both domestically and internationally.

The letter also addressed contemporary political dynamics, with Kharge lamenting the lack of acknowledgment for Dr. Singh”s transformative economic reforms by current leaders. Kharge criticized attempts to discredit Dr. Singh”s legacy, noting the significant contributions made during his tenure that continue to shape India”s economic landscape.

”We live in times that are largely shaped by you. The economic prosperity and stability that we enjoy today is built on the foundations laid by you along with our former Prime Minister, Bharat Ratna, Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao. The current set of leaders who have reaped the benefits of your work are reluctant to credit you due to political biases,” Kharge wrote.

Kharge hailed Dr. Singh”s dignified demeanor and statesmanship, contrasting it with the current political rhetoric characterized by personal attacks and falsehoods. He expressed confidence that Dr. Singh”s legacy of integrity and foresight would endure, transcending the transient challenges of the present.

”The nation misses the quiet yet strong dignity that you brought to the office of the Prime Minister. The Parliament will now miss your wisdom and experience. Your dignified, measured, soft-spoken yet statesman like words are in contrast to the loud voices filled with lies that signify the current politics. The current political situation is such that unscrupulousness is being equated with astute leadership. I still recall your speech on demonetisation which you termed as “monumental management failure” and “an organised loot and legalised plunder”, which has proved to be grim reality,” Kharge wrote.

In conclusion, Kharge extended his best wishes to Dr. Singh for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement, expressing hope that Dr. Singh would continue to inspire and guide the nation with his wisdom and moral compass.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, born in Gah, West Punjab, in 1932, served as the 13th Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. A distinguished economist, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Indian economy during his tenure as Finance Minister in 1991, implementing bold reforms that set the stage for India”s emergence as a global economic powerhouse.

Dr. Singh”s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by a commitment to inclusive growth and social development, exemplified by initiatives such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. Despite facing challenges, Dr. Singh”s leadership steered India through periods of economic prosperity and social progress, leaving an indelible mark on the nation”s trajectory.

Widely regarded as the architect of India”s economic reforms, Dr. Manmohan Singh”s legacy continues to resonate, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.