A revered leader who defied conventions, Manmohan Singh’s legacy is one of quiet dignity and unwavering commitment to public service.
The article discusses the legacy of Manmohan Singh, who served as Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. Despite facing numerous challenges and controversies during his tenure, Singh maintained an aura of personal dignity and integrity. His understated style of leadership earned him respect across party lines, and he was praised for his courageous act in addressing the Sikh community.
Some of the notable events that showcased Singh’s leadership include:
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Signing a landmark deal with the US in 2008 to end India’s nuclear isolation.
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Shielding India from global financial turmoil in 2008-2009.
- Leading his party to a resounding victory in 2009 and returning as PM for a second term.
However, Singh’s tenure was also marred by corruption allegations, including the hosting of the Commonwealth Games and illegal allocation of coal fields. The opposition blamed the government’s “soft stance” on terrorism after a terror attack in Mumbai in 2008.
Singh faced criticism from his own allies and the media for not making bold decisions and for being too soft on terrorism. Despite this, he remained committed to his policies, which focused on the middle class and the poor.
In 2014, Singh announced that he would not seek a third term in office, citing history as a judge of his tenure. He also tried to set the record straight about his accomplishments, but it was too late for him to recover from the damage caused by corruption allegations and other controversies.
Overall, the article portrays Singh as a leader who stayed true to his values and principles despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks. His legacy is one of personal dignity, integrity, and commitment to public service.
