Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh death: Centre announces 7 days nationwide mourning

New Delhi, Dec 27: The Central government declared seven days of national mourning on Friday in honor of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification to the chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories, confirming that mourning would be observed across India until January 1, 2025.

The notification stated that Singh’s last rites would be conducted with full state honors. In accordance with the mourning period, all government programs scheduled for Friday were canceled.

Additionally, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast across India, and no official entertainment will take place during the mourning days.

Earlier on Friday, Dr. Singh's mortal remains were transported from AIIMS in New Delhi to his residence. The former Prime Minister was admitted to AIIMS late Thursday evening, where he passed away.

The hospital confirmed the news late that night, stating, “With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He had been treated for age-related medical conditions and experienced a sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 p.m.”

Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, and was known for his pivotal role in driving India’s economic liberalization. His leadership marked a transformative period for the country.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. The former Prime Minister’s passing signals the end of an era in Indian politics. His legacy continues to inspire future generations.

In April 2024, he retired from the Rajya Sabha, receiving praise for his distinguished parliamentary career from Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

Singh first gained national prominence as the Finance Minister in P.V. Narasimha Rao’s government from 1991 to 1996, where his sweeping economic reforms reshaped India's economy.