Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a seven-day state mourning to honour the memory of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92.
From December 26, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across all state government establishments in Assam, and all official entertainment programs will be cancelled as a mark of respect.
The announcement was made on social media, where Sarma expressed his sentiments, stating, “As a mark of respect to Dr Manmohan Singh Ji, Former Prime Minister of India, Government of Assam will observe a period of 7-day state mourning.” Dr Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic liberalisation, breathed his last at AIIMS Delhi on Thursday. Leaders across Assam paid heartfelt tributes to his legacy, highlighting his pivotal contributions to India’s economic growth and global stature.
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya expressed profound sorrow over Singh’s passing, lauding his efforts in fortifying India’s economy during his tenure.
Chief Minister Sarma, who had the opportunity to work closely with Singh during his time as a Congress minister, shared a deeply personal tribute. “Dr Sahab embodied humility and never surrendered to the trappings of power. In all my interactions with him, his simplicity and decency combined with his intellectual prowess always stood out,” Sarma said.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal joined in commemorating Singh’s unparalleled contributions, noting his role in steering India’s economic resurgence. “He embodied humility and scholarship, leaving an indelible mark on India’s progress,” Sonowal remarked. Political leaders from all parties, including the BJP, Raijor Dal, and Assam Jatiya Parishad, united in praising Singh’s transformative policies. The Assam BJP unit specifically highlighted his role in abolishing the license raj and liberalising the economy, calling it a turning point in India’s development journey.
Dr Singh’s connection to Assam was deeply rooted, having represented the state in the Rajya Sabha for an impressive 28 years. Leaders and citizens alike fondly remembered him as a guiding force in the state’s political and economic landscape. His passing signifies the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, humility, and transformative leadership that reshaped India’s economic destiny.
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