PM Modi praises former PM Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha farewell: ‘His guidance has been commendable…’
On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha during the farewell ceremony for retiring members.
During the farewell of retiring members in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the contributions of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to both Parliament and the nation.
“I wish to reflect on Dr. Manmohan Singh’s remarkable contributions today; they have been truly significant… Over an extended period, the manner in which he has steered this House and the nation, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy will endure for it,” remarked Modi.
On Thursday, retiring members of the Rajya Sabha will receive a farewell at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar’s residence. At 10 am, members of the Rajya Sabha convened for a group photo at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Subsequently, at 6:30 pm, they will participate in the farewell event for retiring members at the chairman’s residence located at 6, Maulana Azad Road.
Modi recalled an incident in the old Parliament building during a trust vote against the government, where it was anticipated that the treasury bench would emerge victorious. However, Dr. Manmohan Singh, despite being on a wheelchair, made a notable appearance to cast his vote. This exemplifies a member’s vigilance towards their responsibilities.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh ji arrived in Parliament on a wheelchair. His awareness of his duties is remarkable. Furthermore, I observed that whenever committee elections took place, he ensured his presence to cast his vote. The significance lies not only in whom he supports but in strengthening democracy, in my opinion,” stated Modi.
In August 2023, Manmohan Singh had attended the Rajya Sabha in a wheelchair to participate in the voting on the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Wishing all retiring members of the Rajya Sabha the best, Modi expressed his hope that they would embark on new endeavors after gaining knowledge in this “eternal university.”
“I trust that the wisdom gained by retiring MPs will contribute to the nation and motivate future generations,” Modi concluded.
On Thursday, Parliament will resume discussions on the Union Interim Budget 2024-25 as well as the Interim Budget of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Acknowledging the significance of the current moment, the prime minister highlighted that departing members had experienced both the old and new parliamentary buildings, departing amidst the Amrit Kaal and the commemoration of 75 years of the Constitution.
Reflecting on the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, Modi commended the dedication of the members in ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of the House despite uncertainties. He recognized the considerable risks taken by MPs to fulfill their duties. Additionally, Modi conveyed heartfelt condolences for members who succumbed to Covid-19, emphasizing the House’s resilience in facing such adversities with dignity and perseverance.
Recalling an episode where the opposition wore black attire, Modi remarked that as the country achieves new heights of prosperity, such gestures could be interpreted as attempts to ward off any negative influences, akin to the concept of ‘kala tika’, aimed at safeguarding the nation’s progress.
The ongoing Budget Sessions of Parliament have been extended until February 10 to accommodate the introduction of a white paper on the state of the economy before and after 2014, when the BJP came to power, succeeding the Congress-led UPA.
In his responses during both Houses of Parliament to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address, Modi criticized the alleged mishandling of the economy by the UPA government, along with its corruption and policy paralysis.
According to the agenda scheduled for the day in the Upper House, Union Minister Bupender Yadav will propose a motion for the election to the Central Advisory Committee.