Ashok Bhan
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh,the noted Supreme Court Lawyer and a Kashmiri leader Ashok Bhan said :
Dr. Manmohan Singh was a man of deep culture, an astute politician, the ablest economist, and a leader who believed in innovative solutions,” Bhan recalled Singh’s famous statement that both nations should work towards robust development in South Asia, with Kashmir serving as a corridor towards the progress and prosperity in the region.
Dr Singh’s exemplary leadership was his role in promoting “out-of-the-box ideas for improving India-Pakistan neighbourly relations and a visionary approach to over all Country’s diplomacy in the world affairs.
The key to his success in international relations was the famous “Indo-American civil nuclear deal.”Bhan said.
“A true gentleman of Indian public life, with unimpeachable integrity,his contributions will continue to guide the nation for generations.”
Bhan outlined key highlights of Singh’s tenure (2004-2014) in shaping India’s relations with Pakistan
Composite Dialogue, Singh’s government resumed talks with Pakistan, covering Kashmir, terrorism, and trade. Lahore Declaration, Singh’s 2004 meeting with Pakistani President reinforced the commitment to peace and cooperation.
Trade and Economic Ties,Singh’s tenure saw several agreements signed to enhance trade and commerce between the two nations.
On Kashmir imbroglio , His government engaged in dialogue with Pakistan, and with the political groups of Kashmir who for their own reason were non participating in the Country’s mainstream democracy and polity for seeking a peaceful and mutually acceptable resolution acceptable to all the stakeholders holders without compromise on the factum of Kashmir being part of Union of India.
2008 Mumbai Attacks, The terrorist attacks carried out by Pakistan-based militants disrupted the peace process, posing a major challenge to bilateral relations.
Despite setbacks, Singh remained committed to fostering stability and cooperation between all the neighbouring Countries.
Bhan said : Manmohan Singh in true sense promoted the Country’s commitment to the ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’”
Bhan said : the best tribute to Dr Singh is : Calling for an end to Pakistan’s support for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, and Pakistan to accept the ground reality that the people of Kashmir have “rejected terrorism and transitioned from turbulence to democracy.” India stands for friendly relations but stressed that it is Pakistan’s responsibility to take the first step and stop promoting terrorism a part of its strategic national policy.India firmly stands against terrorism and condemn terrorism in all forms.
“terror and talks can not go together” is the national political consensus in India.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh stands as one of India’s most dignified and consequential statesmen—an economist of rare intellect and a leader of quiet strength. With humility as his hallmark and integrity as his compass, he reshaped India’s economic destiny through the historic reforms of 1991, opening doors to growth, opportunity, and global engagement.
As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, he led with restraint, reason, and respect for democratic institutions. In an age often dominated by noise, Dr. Singh’s calm scholarship and moral seriousness reminded the nation that leadership need not be loud to be transformative. He believed in evidence over rhetoric, dialogue over division, and service over self.
Beyond policy and office, his legacy endures in the lives improved by economic stability, social inclusion, and a stronger global presence for India. Dr. Manmohan Singh will be remembered not only for what he achieved, but for how he led—with grace, honesty, and unwavering commitment to the public good.
Rest in Peace Dr Singh
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