Nation Mourns for 7 Days; State Funeral Planned for Dr. Manmohan Singh
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (NationPress) The Central government announced a seven-day national mourning period to honor the late former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday.
A directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs, sent to the chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories, indicated that this mourning period would last until January 1, 2025 as a tribute to the former Prime Minister.
The last rites will be performed with full State honors, according to the official statement.
Additionally, all government events planned for Friday have been canceled.
The announcement specified that the National Flag will be displayed at half-mast across India on all public buildings during this mourning period, and no official entertainment will take place.
Earlier on Friday, Dr. Singh's remains were transported from AIIMS New Delhi to his home. He had been admitted to the hospital on Thursday evening, where he later succumbed.
The hospital confirmed Dr. Singh's passing late on Thursday night.
"With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He was under treatment for age-related conditions and experienced a sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26. Immediate resuscitation efforts were made at home, and he was rushed to AIIMS. Despite all attempts, he could not be saved and was pronounced dead at 9:51 p.m.," read the hospital's statement.
Dr. Singh served as the Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and was instrumental in guiding India through a significant economic transformation.
He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters.
The passing of Dr. Singh signifies the closing of a pivotal chapter in Indian politics, with his leadership and legacy poised to inspire future generations.
Earlier this year in April, Manmohan Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge commending his extensive parliamentary service.
Manmohan Singh gained recognition as the Finance Minister under the government of P.V. Narasimha Rao from 1991 to 1996, introducing major reforms that reshaped the economy.
