December 28, 2024: In a dramatic late-night decision, the Centre resolved a contentious dispute by agreeing to allocate space for a memorial dedicated to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. The development came after a heated political standoff between the BJP-led government and the Congress party over the arrangements for Singh’s last rites.

The controversy began when the Union Home Ministry announced that Singh’s cremation would take place at Nigambodh Ghat, a public crematorium, rejecting Congress's request for a separate memorial site. The Congress argued that Singh, India's first Sikh Prime Minister, deserved a dedicated memorial in keeping with the tradition of honoring eminent statesmen.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh condemned the Centre's initial decision, calling it a "deliberate insult" to Singh's legacy. “The people of our country are unable to understand why the Indian government could not find a place for his funeral and memorial befitting his global stature, record of outstanding achievements, and remarkable service to the nation for decades,” he tweeted.

The issue escalated into a war of words, with Congress accusing the BJP of disrespecting Singh, while BJP leaders retorted by highlighting Congress’s past neglect of leaders like former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan criticized Congress for failing to honor Rao with a memorial and accused the party of politicizing Singh’s death.

Following appeals from Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Centre issued a late-night statement. The government acknowledged the request from the Congress chief and confirmed that a separate site would be allocated for Singh’s memorial.

Union Home Ministry officials stated, “The government is committed to respecting the contributions of all former Prime Ministers and will ensure that Dr. Manmohan Singh's memory is honored appropriately.”

The decision to grant a memorial marks a symbolic acknowledgment of Singh’s legacy, potentially cooling political tempers. However, the episode underscores the sharp political divides over the legacy of India’s leaders and the sensitivities surrounding their commemoration.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, is remembered for his pivotal role in liberalizing India’s economy and his global stature as a statesman.