The passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has sparked a political storm between the Congress and BJP, with sharp disagreements over the decision to perform his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat, New Delhi. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, accused the Centre of disrespecting the legacy of Dr. Singh, while BJP leaders called these claims “cheap politics.”
Congress Alleges ‘Insult’ to Manmohan Singh
Rahul Gandhi strongly condemned the Centre’s decision to hold Dr. Singh’s funeral at a public crematorium, calling it a “total insult” to the first Sikh Prime Minister of India.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh deserves the highest respect. Performing his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat shows the government’s disregard for his contributions and legacy,” he tweeted.
Priyanka Gandhi Joins Criticism
Priyanka Gandhi echoed the sentiment, accusing the government of failing to uphold the dignity of Dr. Singh’s position and his contributions to India. She alleged that the arrangements lacked basic respect, citing instances where:
- Dr. Singh’s family struggled to find space at the funeral site.
- Public mourners faced inconveniences due to disorganized arrangements.
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera further detailed “mismanagement” during the ceremony, highlighting inadequate seating and disruptions during the procession.
BJP Responds: ‘Congress Playing Cheap Politics’
The BJP hit back at the Congress, accusing them of exploiting Dr. Singh’s funeral for political gain. BJP President JP Nadda criticized the Gandhi family’s remarks, stating:
“Congress leaders are using this moment of national mourning for petty political narratives. The Centre has already assured that a memorial for Dr. Singh will be established.”
Sambit Patra’s Counterclaims
BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra pointed to Congress’s alleged history of disrespecting its own leaders. He referenced:
- PV Narasimha Rao: Rao’s body was reportedly denied entry into Congress headquarters in Delhi, forcing his last rites to be conducted in Hyderabad.
- Pranab Mukherjee: Patra claimed similar instances of alleged disrespect occurred during the funeral of the former President.
“Congress has no moral authority to accuse the government when they themselves have failed to honor their own leaders,” Patra asserted.
The Memorial Debate
The controversy centers on Congress’s demand for a dedicated memorial site for Dr. Singh, similar to those for other former Prime Ministers. The Centre, however, opted for Nigambodh Ghat as the venue for his last rites, citing logistical reasons. In its statement, the government clarified:
“A trust will be formed, and space allocated for a memorial. The decision to hold the cremation at Nigambodh Ghat was taken in consultation with relevant authorities.”
Legacy Overshadowed by Politics
Dr. Manmohan Singh, widely respected for his contributions to India’s economic reforms and his tenure as a transformative leader, remains a towering figure in Indian politics. However, the political row over his funeral arrangements threatens to overshadow his enduring legacy.
The debate over Dr. Singh’s funeral arrangements highlights the deep divisions between the Congress and BJP. While Congress demands greater recognition of his legacy, the BJP accuses the opposition of politicizing a solemn occasion. As the nation mourns the loss of a visionary leader, it is crucial to remember his contributions to India’s progress, transcending political affiliations.
