The Congress party has accused the BJP-led Union government of disrespecting former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh by conducting his cremation at Delhi’s Nigam Bodh Ghat rather than dedicating a memorial site to honor his legacy. Dr. Singh, India’s first Sikh Prime Minister and a two-time head of state, passed away at 92 and was cremated with full state honors on Saturday. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, condemned the arrangements, calling them inadequate and disrespectful to Singh’s stature and contributions.

Rahul Gandhi criticized the government on social media, accusing it of failing to uphold traditions that ensure former Prime Ministers are laid to rest at authorized memorial sites. He emphasized that Singh’s legacy deserved a lasting tribute, calling the arrangements an insult to both the office of the Prime Minister and the Sikh community. Priyanka Gandhi echoed these sentiments, pointing out the chaotic funeral scene and inadequate space for Singh’s family and mourners, which she described as unjust to the former leader’s dignity.

Adding to the controversy, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged multiple instances of mismanagement at the event, including restricted public access and inadequate media coverage of Singh’s family. DMK Chief M.K. Stalin also weighed in, accusing the government of intentionally undermining Singh’s legacy and contributions. The Congress has demanded the allocation of a memorial site near Rajghat to properly honor the former Prime Minister’s enduring impact on the nation.