Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, alongside leaders from across party lines, expressed profound grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. The passing of the esteemed economist, statesman, and reformer marks the end of an era in Indian politics.
A Legacy of Leadership and Integrity
In a heartfelt message, CM Mohan Charan Majhi described Singh as one of India’s most illustrious leaders. “Dr. Manmohan Singh was acclaimed worldwide for his economic acumen. His dedication, integrity, and calm leadership will be remembered forever,” Majhi said.
Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also paid tribute, calling Singh an able administrator, an efficient parliamentarian, and a pioneer of India’s economic reforms. “He redefined India’s economic landscape and played a pivotal role in restoring its financial stability,” Patnaik remarked.
Union ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw also expressed their condolences. Pradhan highlighted Singh’s humility and scholarly approach, calling him a “statesman whose policies left an indelible impact on India’s development.” Vaishnaw described Singh’s leadership and dedication as exemplary.
Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo and other political figures, including Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda and former Odisha Congress president Niranjan Patnaik, joined in the collective mourning. Panda praised Singh’s gentle demeanor and personal touch, which earned him admirers across the nation.
A Personal Connection and Admiration
Dr. Singh’s legacy resonates deeply with many, including Prasanta Kumar Patnaik, an eminent senior journalist and political critic from Odisha. “I was a great admirer of Dr. Singh’s visionary leadership and his immense contributions to our nation. His calm demeanor, humility, and intellect were unparalleled. As an economist, he reshaped India’s future, and as a statesman, he earned global respect. His loss is a personal one for me and an irreplaceable void for the nation,” Patnaik said.
Manmohan Singh’s Odisha Connection
Beyond his national contributions, Singh shared a personal bond with Odisha. His daughter, Daman Singh, is married to Odia IPS officer Ashok Patnaik, further deepening his connection with the state.
Daman Singh, a graduate of St. Stephen’s College and a writer, married Patnaik in 1991. Patnaik, a Gujarat-cadre IPS officer of the 1983 batch, served as the CEO of the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) and was awarded the President’s Police Medal in 2007, presented by Singh himself.
The Singh family’s ties with Odisha were evident during the former PM’s visits to the state. In January 2012, Singh’s wife, Gursharan Kaur, visited her son-in-law’s family in Bhubaneswar, where she was warmly welcomed.
A Visionary Economist and Reformist
Dr. Manmohan Singh will be remembered for his groundbreaking reforms that transformed India into a global economic powerhouse. His policies not only stabilized the economy but also paved the way for sustainable growth and development.
Odisha mourns the loss of a leader who was not only a global statesman but also shared a special bond with the state. His legacy of humility, wisdom, and reform will continue to inspire generations to come.
As the nation bids farewell to a luminary, Odisha joins the rest of India in honoring the life and contributions of Dr. Manmohan Singh—a true architect of modern India.
Prasanta Patnaik