Abhishek Banerjee slams sports, film celebrities for silence over Manmohan Singh’s death

Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has sharply criticized prominent sports and film personalities for their silence following the death of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Dr. Singh, 92, passed away at Delhi's AIIMS hospital on December 26, 2024, and was cremated with full state honors in New Delhi the following day. The ceremony was attended by top dignitaries, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Banerjee, in a social media post, hailed Dr. Singh as "one of India’s greatest statesmen" and acknowledged his transformative role in reshaping the Indian economy, particularly through the 1991 economic reforms that liberalized the country's market. He expressed disappointment over the "complete silence" from prominent figures in the sports and film industries, groups typically celebrated as role models in India. Banerjee’s comments underscored that despite Singh's monumental contributions, many of these influential personalities failed to publicly acknowledge his death.

The TMC leader suggested that the silence from these celebrities could stem from a "fear of government backlash," implying that individuals in the entertainment and sports sectors may be hesitant to speak on national issues due to potential repercussions from the government. This pattern of silence, according to Banerjee, is not new and has been visible during various national movements and crises. He cited the ongoing farmer protests, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)-National Register of Citizens (NRC) movement, and the violence in Manipur, where many celebrities and public figures chose not to voice their opinions.

Banerjee further emphasized the troubling trend of indifference among these so-called "role models" in the face of significant national issues. He criticized their reluctance to take a stand on important matters while enjoying their fame and wealth, which, in his view, is derived from public admiration. Banerjee’s comments pointed to the responsibility that public figures have in addressing the struggles of ordinary citizens and contributing to national discourse, especially during times of crisis.

In conclusion, Banerjee urged the public to reconsider the individuals they elevate as role models. He called for a focus on honoring those who truly contribute to the nation and society, such as freedom fighters, soldiers, and others who make personal sacrifices for the greater good. Banerjee’s statement concluded with a call for greater accountability from celebrities and public figures, encouraging citizens to demand integrity from those they look up to.