Former PM Manmohan Singh’s last rites at Nigambodh Ghat

The last rites of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has started today at 11:45 AM at Nigambodh Ghat, New Delhi, with full state honors. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed the arrangements, announcing a seven-day national mourning period from December 28, 2024, to January 1, 2024. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across India and at Indian diplomatic missions worldwide. A half-day holiday has been declared for all central government offices and public sector enterprises on Saturday, December 28.

Dr. Singh, 92, passed away on December 26, 2024, after his health sharply declined. He was admitted to AIIMS, New Delhi, at 8:06 PM on December 26, and was declared dead at 9:51 PM despite efforts to revive him. His mortal remains were taken from his residence to the Congress headquarters on Akbar Road at 8:00 AM today, where the public can pay their respects. A funeral procession will depart from Congress headquarters at 9:30 AM and proceed to Nigambodh Ghat for the cremation.

In recognition of his contributions, the government has announced that a memorial will be established in honor of Dr. Singh. The location for the memorial has been discussed with his family and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that while the cremation will proceed today, the process of allocating space for the memorial will take time. The Congress party, however, raised concerns over the delay, urging the government to expedite the decision.

To facilitate the funeral procession, Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory, restricting traffic on major roads from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. These include Ring Road (Mahatma Gandhi Marg), Nishad Raj Marg, Boulevard Road, SPM Marg, Lothian Road, and Netaji Subhash Marg. Travelers heading to or from Old Delhi Railway Station, ISBT, Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and Tis Hazari Court are advised to plan for possible delays.