During the farewell ceremony for retiring members in the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed admiration for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh significant contributions. Modi commended Singh’s guidance in both the House and the country, highlighting his enduring legacy.
“I want to remember Dr. Manmohan Singh today; his contribution has been immense… For such a long time, the way he has guided this House and the country, Dr. Manmohan Singh will always be remembered for it,” Modi remarked.
Retiring members of the Rajya Sabha were honored at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar’s residence, with a group photo session taking place at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier in the day. Later in the evening, a farewell function was held at the chairman’s residence on Maulana Azad Road.
Reflecting on a memorable incident in the old Parliament building, Modi recalled Singh’s dedication during a crucial trust vote against the government. Despite the outcome being clear, Singh, in a wheelchair, cast his vote, exemplifying a member’s commitment to duty.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh ji came to Parliament in a wheelchair. How conscious he is of his responsibilities… the question is not to whom he came to give strength, I believe, to give strength to democracy,” Modi remarked.
Extending his best wishes to the retiring members, Modi expressed hope that their experiences in the “eternal university” of Parliament would empower them to achieve new heights.
“I hope the experience of retiring MPs will benefit the country and inspire new generations,” Modi added.
The ongoing discussion on the Union Interim Budget 2024-25 and the Interim Budget of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir continued in Parliament. Modi emphasized the historical significance of the moment, with retiring members having witnessed the transition between the old and new Parliament buildings and commemorating Amrit Kaal and 75 years of the Constitution.
Amidst reflections on the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi praised the commitment of MPs to ensure the smooth functioning of the House despite uncertainties. He also expressed condolences for those members who lost their lives to COVID-19.
Modi noted an incident where the opposition wore black clothes, interpreting it as a symbolic attempt to ward off negativity amid the nation’s progress towards prosperity.
The ongoing Budget Session of Parliament has been extended to February 10 to introduce a white paper on the state of the economy pre and post-2014. During his address in both Houses of Parliament, Modi criticized the UPA government’s economic management and policy paralysis.
Discover more from The Doon Mozaic
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
