Congress leader Pawan Khera on Monday responded to accusations from BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya regarding the absence of Congress leaders during the ashes immersion of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, stating that the decision was made out of respect for the privacy of the bereaved family.
Khera, the chairman of Congress’ media and publicity department, clarified that senior Congress leaders did not accompany Singh’s family for the immersion ceremony, as it was a mutual decision made in consultation with the family. He explained that the family had already faced significant public attention during the cremation, and it was deemed appropriate to offer them privacy during the emotionally charged ritual of immersing the ashes.
He further mentioned that following the cremation, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had met the Singh family at their residence to offer condolences, reaffirming the party’s support during this difficult time.
Pawan Khera dismissed Malviya’s claims, which criticized the Congress for not honoring Singh with dignity. The BJP leader had remarked on social media, calling it “shameful” that no Congress or Gandhi family members were present to gather Singh’s ashes. Khera emphasized that the Congress party had always shown respect for Singh’s legacy and that the decision was a compassionate gesture to safeguard the family’s privacy during a painful moment.
The Congress had earlier raised concerns regarding the location of Singh’s funeral, accusing the central government of not offering a suitable memorial site. However, the BJP responded by accusing the Congress of politicizing the matter, especially on the day of the funeral.
Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26 at the age of 92, was given a state funeral on December 28 at Nigambodh Ghat. The government has since announced plans to construct a memorial in his honor.
