The country is mourning the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, his contributions and criticisms are being remembered.

The demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has left the entire country grief-stricken. Today everyone is remembering his expertise in the field of economics and his simplicity as Prime Minister. However, criticism of his leadership and his reputation as “not decisive” has also been a topic of discussion.

Sonia Gandhi’s strategic decision and PM’s chair

When Congress and its allies got the lead in the 2004 general elections, speculations about Sonia Gandhi becoming Prime Minister had intensified. But due to the foreign origin controversy, he took an unexpected decision and put forward Dr. Manmohan Singh for the post of Prime Minister.

This decision was considered a strategic step for the Gandhi family.

• An attempt was made to erase the stain of the 1984 Sikh riots from the Congress by making a Sikh leader the Prime Minister.
• The choice of Manmohan Singh, an economist and man with an austere reputation, sent the message that control of decision-making would remain in the hands of the Gandhi family.

‘The Accidental Prime Minister’ and Singh’s leadership

Sanjay Baru, advisor to Manmohan Singh, in his book The Accidental Prime Minister threw light on his leadership style and his equations with the Congress high command.

Baru writes:

• In UPA-1, “Sonia Gandhi got credit for all the good work,” while Manmohan Singh was held responsible for any failure.
• Dr. Singh never denied this truth. When the allies put forward any difficult demand, he would say, “The final decision will be taken by Sonia Gandhi.” By saying this he used to avoid complex issues.
• Thus, what was considered his weakness became his strength.

Focused on efficient foreign policy

According to Baru, due to his “tied hands” in governance, Dr Singh focused his attention on foreign policy. Through Natwar Singh he achieved many diplomatic achievements.

Criticism and the label of “remote government”

During his 10-year tenure as Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh was considered the epitome of “remote controlled government”. The opposition and media strongly targeted his silence and the role of the Gandhi family in decision making.

Expressed pain in his last days

In the last days of his tenure as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh shared his thoughts in a press conference. He said:

“The opposition and the media have been ruthless towards me, but I hope history will be generous with me.”

Manmohan Singh: Symbol of simplicity and efficiency

As an economist, Dr. Singh laid the foundation of India’s economic reforms. His blue turban, simple lifestyle, and thoughtful personality made him special. Despite criticism during his tenure, he left an indelible mark in Indian politics through his silence and steadfastness.