In a tribute during the farewell ceremony for retiring members of the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauded the dedication and commitment of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Modi reminisced about a poignant moment when Singh, despite physical challenges, participated in the democratic process.
“I remember in the other House, during the voting, it was known that the treasury bench would win, but Dr Manmohan Singh came in his wheelchair and cast his vote,” said Prime Minister Modi.
Modi’s remarks underscored his profound respect for Singh, acknowledging his perseverance and sense of duty.
“This is an example of a member being alert of his duties,” Modi said.
“Ideological differences are short-lived, but the way Manmohan Singh has guided this House and the country for such a long period, he will be remembered for his contributions during every discussion on our democracy,” PM Modi said.
Retiring members of the Rajya Sabha were honoured with a farewell ceremony at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar’s residence in Delhi. The event marked a moment of reflection and appreciation for the contributions made by the departing members to the legislative process.
Earlier in the day, Rajya Sabha members participated in a group photo session at 10 am at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, further commemorating their time served in the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
The farewell function, scheduled for 6.30 pm at the chairman’s residence, allowed colleagues and peers to bid farewell to retiring members and express gratitude for their service to the nation.
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his acknowledgement of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s work.
“Manmohan Singh did good work. I thank the PM for his words. This is how things should be. Appreciate good work and criticise the bad,” said the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha.
Dr. Manmohan Singh, a six-time Member of Parliament, served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. He also held prominent positions such as Finance Minister under PV Narasimha Rao and RBI Governor from 1982 to 1985.
