New Delhi: Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday denied Congress’s accusations that the BJP dishonoured former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh during his final rites. The Congress alleged that conducting Singh’s cremation at Nigambodh Ghat was disrespectful and raised concerns over the lack of a memorial, a privilege extended to former PMs and deputy PMs in the past.
Puri, while talking to news agency ANI, said, “There is no controversy; it is being manufactured. The Congress is isolated, not just within the INDI alliance but also across the country. This is the same Congress that disrespected former PM PV Narasimha Rao by not allowing his mortal remains to be brought to the party headquarters. His final cremation had to be conducted in Hyderabad. Regarding Dr Manmohan Singh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had written a letter, and the home ministry promptly agreed to their request.”
Puri refutes Congress’s claims
Puri further highlighted the participation of the Sikh community during Singh’s last rites. “Members of the Sikh Sangat came and prayed for him. Even today, when his ashes were immersed, our people were present, but Congress leaders were notably absent. We have always admired Dr Manmohan Singh’s work and drawn inspiration from him. A memorial in his honour will certainly be built,” he assured.
Refuting the Congress’s claims of deliberate neglect, BJP leaders pointed out that Singh was accorded full state and military honours, including a 21-gun salute. A seven-day national mourning period was declared, and the national flag was flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
‘Congress did not honour Dr Manmohan Singh during his lifetime’
Puri criticised Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for politicising Singh’s death. “The Congress did not honour Dr Manmohan Singh during his lifetime and is now using his memory for political gain. Such actions are a disservice to his legacy and the values he embodied,” he said.
Responding to Congress’s demand for a cremation site at the National Memorial Complex near Rajghat, Puri clarified, “There is no intentional slight. All due protocols were followed with utmost respect for the former Prime Minister.”
He also praised Singh’s contributions to the nation, saying, “Dr Manmohan Singh was a remarkable statesman and an exceptional economist who guided the country through challenging times. His demise is a significant loss, and his legacy will be remembered for years to come.”
