Manmohan Singh, India’s first Sikh prime minister, left an indelible mark on the country’s history with his “kind and soft-spoken” approach to politics. Despite being a shy politician, he navigated complex situations with dignity and integrity.
Born to a poor family in what is now Pakistan, Singh overcame insurmountable odds to rise through the ranks as a Cambridge and Oxford-educated economist. His personal story made him a hero to India’s middle classes.
However, it was his bold move of offering an apology in parliament for the 1984 riots that showcased his courage. The deal with the US in 2008, which ended India’s nuclear isolation, also demonstrated his determination.
Despite facing numerous controversies, including corruption allegations and public criticism, Singh remained steadfast in his commitment to his country. He took a rare news conference to announce not seeking a third term in office, and later stated that history would judge him more kindly than the media or opposition parties.
Throughout his tenure, Singh’s policies focused on the middle class and poor, with notable initiatives such as increasing salaries of central employees and introducing landmark schemes on education and jobs. His image as a kind leader remained, despite the challenges he faced in politics.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy531yl2ld7o