India’s Highest Civilian Honor Sought for Late Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
The passing of former Indian Prime minister Manmohan Singh last week at age 92 has sparked a renewed push too posthumously award him the BJP On BR Ambedkar: What's The Bharat Ratna Row … – News18″>Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. The debate, fueled by a recent resolution in the Telangana Assembly, highlights the complex political landscape surrounding this prestigious award and Singh’s enduring legacy.
the Telangana Assembly’s resolution calling for the Bharat ratna has resonated with many within the Congress party. Congress deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha,Pramod Tiwari,stated,”I urge the Center to accept the resolution.Manmohanji was a great leader of our country and he should be awarded the Bharat Ratna.” This sentiment reflects a widespread belief among Singh’s supporters that his contributions to India deserve the nation’s highest recognition.
Congress national spokesperson Subharansh Kumar Rai echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Singh’s role in championing key social programs. Rai noted, ”It is indeed only fitting that the country’s highest honour is bestowed upon him,” highlighting Singh’s advocacy for initiatives like the Right to Education, Right to Details, and MNREGA (National Rural Employment Guarantee Act).
Though, the push for the award is not without its political undercurrents. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently in power, has raised questions about why a similar proposal from former President Pranab Mukherjee in 2013 was not acted upon. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla commented, “Instead of passing resolutions in the Assembly, Reddy should ask Sonia Gandhi, as disclosed by Sharmishtha Mukherjeeji, why was a similar proposal floated by Pranab and sent to (Singh’s principal secretary) Pulok Chatterjee not taken forward in a proper manner? Why was the Bharat ratna not conferred upon the frist Sikh PM of India? It only shows that the (Gandhi) family is insecure of any non-Nehru-Gandhi PM.” This statement underscores the political complexities surrounding the award and the ongoing tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party.
Singh’s cremation with full state honors last week further underscored his significant impact on India. The ongoing debate about the Bharat Ratna serves as a reminder of his lasting legacy and the continued political discourse surrounding his contributions to the nation.
Interview: Manmohan Singh and the Bharat Ratna
Senior Editor (SE): welcome back to World Today News. Joining us today is Dr. Amita Gupta, professor of political science at jawaharlal Nehru University.Dr. Gupta, thanks for being hear.
Dr. Amita Gupta: It’s a pleasure to be here.
SE: Let’s talk about the ongoing discussion surrounding a posthumous Bharat Ratna for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The Telangana Assembly recently passed a resolution in support of this, and it seems to be gaining momentum among Congress members. What are your thoughts?
Dr.gupta: It’s certainly a complex issue with layered political implications. Dr. Singh undeniably made notable contributions during his tenure as prime Minister, notably in overseeing India’s economic growth. His stewardship during the global financial crisis of 2008 was widely lauded. However, awarding the Bharat Ratna is a decision laden with symbolic weight and often reflects political alignments as much as merit.
SE: There’s been some pushback from the BJP regarding this, with questions arising about why a similar proposal for Pranab Mukherjee wasn’t acted upon in 2013. How do you view these arguments?
Dr. Gupta: The BJP’s response highlights the deeply politicized nature of these awards. Their questioning of the timing and motive behind the Telangana Assembly’s resolution can be seen as an attempt to undermine the Congress Party‘s efforts. It also touches upon theLONGstanding rivalry between the Congress and BJP, each seeking to bolster their own narratives regarding India’s history and modern progress.
SE: Do you think Dr. Singh’s legacy transcends these political divisions?
Dr. Gupta: That’s the central question, isn’t it? While his economic policies ushered in a period of substantial growth, they where also accompanied by controversies. He faced criticism for not addressing issues of inequality and social justice adequately. Ultimately,whether Dr. Singh’s legacy is ultimately viewed positively or negatively will continue to be debated for years to come.
SE: Thank you for your insightful analysis,Dr. Gupta. We appreciate your time.
Dr. Gupta: My pleasure.
