Ashwini Vaishnaw Critiques Congress for Politicising Manmohan Singh's Final Journey

Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw criticised the Congress party, accusing it of hypocrisy over the handling of former prime minister Manmohan Singh's last journey. Through a series of posts on X, Vaishnaw alleged that Congress had consistently marginalised Singh during his time as prime minister. "Congress's hypocrisy stands exposed as they politicise Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji's last journey. Congress repeatedly sidelined him during his tenure as PM," stated the I&B minister.

Vaishnaw's comments came in response to Congress leaders who accused the BJP-led NDA government of disrespecting Singh by conducting his last rites at Nigambodh Ghat instead of a location that could serve as his memorial. He highlighted that Congress had previously denied a proper memorial to former PM PV Narasimha Rao, known for economic reforms, and did not allow his last journey through AICC headquarters.

Allegations of Disrespect

The Union minister further criticised Congress for not honouring former president Pranab Mukherjee after his death and downplaying the Bharat Ratna awarded to him. Vaishnaw claimed that Dr. Manmohan Singh was reduced to a "proxy prime minister," with real power being exercised by Mrs Gandhi through the National Advisory Council, which he said undermined the constitution.

Vaishnaw also recalled an incident from 2013 when Rahul Gandhi publicly tore up an ordinance approved by the Cabinet chaired by Dr. Singh, describing it as the ultimate insult. "Height of hypocrisy indeed," he remarked, emphasising the disrespect shown towards Singh during his tenure.

The accusations against Congress reflect ongoing political tensions between the parties. The BJP and Congress have often clashed over issues related to governance and respect for leaders. Vaishnaw's statements add another layer to this ongoing narrative, highlighting perceived inconsistencies in Congress's treatment of its own leaders.

These remarks are part of a broader political discourse where both parties frequently criticise each other's actions and policies. The focus on how leaders are honoured after their passing is just one aspect of this larger debate, reflecting deeper ideological differences between the two major political entities in India.