Sam Pitroda, Others Reflect on Legacy of Dr. Manmohan Singh

By Ritu Jha-

The recent passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh is prompting tributes from across the globe, as leaders reflect on his transformative impact on India’s economy, diplomacy, and his unwavering dedication to democratic values.

Sam Pitroda, Chairperson of the Indian Overseas Congress, expressed deep grief following the passing of the former prime minister on Thursday, December 27. In an emotional tribute, Pitroda lauded Singh as the leader who laid the foundation for a liberal India and rebuilt the nation’s economy.

“Dr. Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister who laid the foundation for liberal India and rebuilt the country’s economy,” Pitroda told indica. “He was a Gandhian, not a weak leader. He was simple, unassuming, and not authoritarian. He believed in democracy, diversity, worked for the poor, and was not looking for publicity. He never really cared about personal publicity. That’s how simple and humble a person he was, a man of character.”

Pitroda, who worked closely with Singh for over a decade as Chairman of the National Knowledge Commission and advisor on public information infrastructure, recalled their time together fondly.

“I used to meet him regularly and we had some great conversations,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda also shared a personal anecdote that underscored Singh’s humility.

“When Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh was not in the government, but he was in Delhi. We had gone to a party with all the politicians. When the party was over, everybody came out, and their drivers were being summoned. I was standing with Manmohan Singh outside, and he was the only one among all the politicians who was driving himself.”

Reflecting on Singh’s leadership, Pitroda emphasized his ability to guide without being authoritarian. 

“He was a great team leader. He allowed people the freedom and flexibility needed for that. He never interfered in your job, he helped you,” Pitroda added.

Pitroda also spoke about Singh’s vision for India’s future, saying he believed the country should not focus on building a Hindu nation, but rather a diverse nation in line with the ideals set forth by the country’s founding fathers.

U.S. diplomats and world leaders paid tribute to Singh’s vision and humility. U.S. Undersecretary of State Nicholas Burns described Singh as “a visionary” and highlighted his role in advancing the Indo-U.S. Nuclear Deal.

Ramesh Vishwanath Kapur, President of the U.S.-India Security Council, hailed Singh for his instrumental role in the historic nuclear deal between the U.S. and India. 

“Dr. Singh was more excited about the deal than President George W. Bush,” Kapur noted, referring to the 2005 agreement that reshaped Indo-U.S. relations.

Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of the Indian Overseas Congress in the U.S., recalled his personal interactions with the late prime minister, describing him as “a statesman.” 

“He was an extraordinary man,” Gilzian said, recounting an incident where Singh insisted on walking his guest to the front gate after a meeting.

George Abraham, Vice-Chair of the Indian Overseas Congress, also reflected on Singh’s leadership, describing him as a man of integrity who was integral in shaping India’s economy. 

“He has taken a centrally planned, inward-looking, public sector-centered economy and reversed its direction,” Abraham said.

Ashok Bhan, a senior Supreme Court lawyer, called Singh “a visionary leader and a friend of Kashmiris,” praising his efforts for peace between India and Pakistan.

“His peace efforts for Kashmir will always be an inspiration for any lasting solution,” Bhan added.

Kanwal Rekhi, a venture capitalist, acknowledged Singh’s role in India’s economic liberalization but noted that his tenure as Prime Minister had mixed results. 

“He executed the prime minister’s plan of liberalization with full gusto and set the economy on a growth path,” Rekhi said, though he also pointed out shortcomings during Singh’s time in office.

Dr. KRS Murthy, a scientist, shared his interaction with Singh at a solar energy event in 2009, recalling how Singh was impressed by his innovation in solar technology.