'History Will Be Kinder...'; Why Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh Said This In His Last Speech?

On December 26, Manmohan Singh, India's 14th Prime Minister, passed away at 92 after battling prolonged health issues. His demise was confirmed by AIIMS, New Delhi, where he was taken following a sudden loss of consciousness at his home.

Despite immediate medical attention, Singh was pronounced dead, marking the end of an era in Indian politics and economics. Known for his significant contributions as Finance Minister and then as Prime Minister, his leadership catalyzed India's economic liberalization and modernization, leading to an impressive average annual growth rate of 7.7 per cent during his tenure.

Singh, born in Punjab on September 26, 1932, was an acclaimed economist who spearheaded India's economic reforms in the early '90s. His tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 was notable for navigating India through challenging economic transformations and the complexities of coalition governance. Under his guidance, India not only achieved remarkable economic growth but also positioned itself as a formidable economy globally. His leadership was marked by efforts to modernize India's economy, despite the hurdles presented by coalition politics.

Reflecting on his tenure at his final press conference on January 3, 2014, Singh addressed his critics with a stoic resolve, foreseeing a favorable historical judgment. "I honestly believe history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or for that matter, the Opposition parties in Parliament," he asserted, in response to criticisms of his leadership and decisiveness. His statement underscored his belief in the positive impact of his administrative decisions, despite the controversies and challenges of his time in office.

Singh's contribution wasn't without its trials. His government, particularly during its second term, was marred by allegations of widespread corruption, affecting its public image and contributing to the Congress Party's defeat in the 2014 General Elections. Despite these challenges, Singh pointed out the achievements of his administration, including maintaining an average economic growth rate of 7.6 per cent. He also acknowledged the need for improvements in areas such as employment, inflation control, and anti-corruption measures as he announced his decision to step down following the elections.

During his final moments in the political limelight, Singh highlighted the intricacies of leading a coalition government. He remarked, "I cannot divulge all the things that take place in the cabinet system of government. Taking into account the circumstances and the compulsions of a coalition polity, I have done as best as I could under the circumstances." This reflection offered insight into the challenges he faced, balancing coalition dynamics while pushing for economic and social reforms.

Singh leaves behind a legacy of economic transformation and a vision for a modernized India. Despite the controversies and criticisms that dotted his political journey, his role in steering India through periods of economic upheaval and his efforts towards liberalization will be remembered. As India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, the words from his last press conference resonate, suggesting that his contributions to India's development might indeed be viewed more favorably by history than by his contemporaries.