PDP Pays Tribute to Manmohan Singh, Praises His Era of Economic Growth and Communal Harmony

SRINAGAR, Dec 27:  PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Friday paid heartfelt tributes to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, lauding his unparalleled contributions to India and describing his values of humility, integrity, and inclusivity as a source of inspiration for generations. Mufti, accompanied by party members, offered floral tributes during a condolence meeting at the PDP headquarters in Srinagar, reflecting on the former prime minister’s towering legacy.

Highlighting Singh’s transformative role in shaping modern India’s economic landscape, Mufti recalled his leadership during the pivotal liberalisation, privatisation, and globalisation reforms of the 1990s. She referred to him as the architect of India’s economic resurgence, which set the stage for sustained growth and prosperity. “From landmark initiatives like NREGA and the Food Security Act to the revolutionary AADHAR scheme and the historic nuclear deal, Singh’s policies touched the lives of every Indian, bringing opportunities and security to millions,” she stated.

Mufti also shared a personal anecdote from 2002, when discussions were underway for a PDP-Congress alliance in Jammu and Kashmir. Sent by Sonia Gandhi to facilitate talks, Singh made a lasting impression on Mufti with his humility and warmth. “I had never encountered such a soft-spoken and kind-hearted individual. His role was instrumental in shaping the alliance and its agenda,” she remarked.

The PDP president praised Singh’s leadership for its steadfast commitment to communal harmony. “During his decade-long tenure, India witnessed an era free from communal violence. Contrast this with today, where incidents of lynching, religious intolerance, and harassment of minorities have become disturbingly frequent,” Mufti observed. She emphasized that Singh’s era of inclusivity and peace remains his enduring legacy.

Mufti also acknowledged Singh’s sincere efforts towards Jammu and Kashmir, particularly through economic packages and initiatives aimed at addressing political and social challenges in the region. “His formation of five working groups to address J&K’s issues demonstrated his commitment to finding constitutional solutions. Despite the hostile environment of the time, these reports remain relevant as guiding frameworks today,” she said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Mufti admired Singh’s quiet yet resolute leadership. “He was a man of few words but immense action. His vision for peace, prosperity, and progress is unimaginable in today’s context,” she added, describing him as a leader who exemplified statesmanship and humility.

Meanwhile, tributes poured in from other leaders. Former Union Minister and Congress leader Saifuddin Soz described Singh’s demise as a monumental loss to the nation. Jagmohan Singh Raina, chairman of the All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC), highlighted Singh’s unwavering advocacy for dialogue and peace in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing his belief in resolving conflicts through understanding and cooperation.

Manmohan Singh’s legacy, marked by groundbreaking policies, ethical governance, and compassion, continues to resonate, reminding the nation of the transformative potential of principled leadership.