Former RAW Chief P.K. Hormis Tharakan Remembers Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Innovative Leadership

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 27 (NationPress) In a reflective moment regarding his time as the head of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) during the tenure of the late Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, P.K. Hormis Tharakan cherished the leader's knack for innovative thinking.

"He often encouraged us to think out of the box," Tharakan stated, now enjoying a peaceful retirement near Alappuzha in Kerala.

Recollecting a significant meeting from two decades ago, he shared how he first encountered Dr. Singh while serving as the Chief of Kerala Police. This was during a visit by the then-Prime Minister to evaluate the tsunami's aftermath in Kerala.

"After assessing the devastated regions, Dr. Singh intended to head towards the southern districts of Tamil Nadu, but inclement weather thwarted his journey. While he took refuge at the official residence of the Kerala Governor, I had the chance to converse with him," Tharakan reminisced. "That meeting may have influenced my later appointment as the head of RAW a month after. "

Tharakan praised Dr. Singh’s vision, especially in terms of economic reforms and the Indo-US nuclear agreement. "His principle of ‘thinking out of the box’ was not mere advice -- it was a doctrine he embodied, as evidenced by his pioneering policies," he remarked.

Regarding relations with Pakistan, Tharakan reflected on the difficulties Dr. Singh encountered. "He valued my perspectives during discussions about General Musharraf. I conveyed that Musharraf appeared trustworthy, yet my officers were skeptical. Dr. Singh recognized the deep-rooted institutional mistrust and hoped for progress," Tharakan narrated.

While peace initiatives with Pakistan didn’t fully succeed, Tharakan feels that Dr. Singh’s diplomatic efforts made a significant impact. "He frequently mentioned that my role was to ‘be friendly with the enemy,’ to reach out, comprehend their needs, and forge pathways that politicians could not always navigate," he added, noting that various factors hindered success, but had things proceeded smoothly, it could have ushered in peace between the two nations.

Tharakan also highlighted Dr. Singh’s steadfast principles. "He never weaponized national agencies against his opponents," he noted.

A touching memory from their last meeting a year ago underscored the human aspect of the former Prime Minister. "Despite being visibly unwell, he dedicated an hour to our conversation. Before I departed, he grasped my hand and expressed his happiness with my work. That simple act was one of the most meaningful acknowledgments I have ever received," Tharakan shared.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s unassuming yet impactful leadership continues to motivate those who collaborated with him. His capacity to merge intelligence with humility, along with his dedication to dialogue and innovation, remains a defining aspect of his legacy.