A Surge of Emotion in Favor of Late Indian PM Dr. Manmohan Singh

While the former Indian PM Dr. Manmohan Singh was alive, many Sikh had reservations about him for not having done enough for the community. However, after his death, the tide seems to be turning. It started with a petty move by the BJP, which denied the INC’s request for Singh’s cremation at Raj Ghat–the place designated for cremation for prime ministers and presidents of India. Singh was cremated at Nigambodh Ghat, which is a public cremation ground. Though during 2014 general elections, SAD had called Singh a ‘weak prime minister’ and advocated for Narendra Modi, after Singh’s death SAD working president Balwinder Singh Bhunder went to INC headquarters to pay tributes. SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal has called for the installation of Singh’s portrait at the Central Sikh Museum. Akal University, Talwandi Sabo, Panjab will establish a chair in development economy in Singh’s name. Akal Takht (Eternal Throne) Jathedar (leader) Giani Raghbir Singh gave Singh a glowing tribute and mentioned his contribution towards increasing the recognition and respect of the Sikh turban in the world. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) held a special condolence meeting and kept its offices closed for a day as a mark of respect. During Singh's antim ardas (final prayers) at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj, Delhi, SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami bestowed a siropa (honour) on his wife, Gursharan Kaur. In Pakistan, villagers of Gah—Singh's birthplace—gathered to say a last dua (prayer) for their ‘Dr Saab.’ Panjab INC is demanding a Panth Ratan (Sikh Collective’s jewel) for Singh, however it is an emotional and a misplaced wish. Singh brought dignity and decorum to India’s highest public office, which seems an exception under the present dispensation, but the award is for those who specifically serve the Sikh community (WD Vol 3, Issue 1, Story1).