Devegowda credits MMS for rescuing flailing 90s economy

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Setting aside political differences, JD(S) national president HD Devegowda made a rare public appearance to participate in a condolence meeting for the late two-time Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Devegowda described Dr Singh as someone “who effectively brought India out of severe economic distress during his tenure as Finance Minister.” Singh was made the Finance Minister by then Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao in June 1991. The condolence meeting was held at the JD(S) state office JP Bhavan in Bengaluru on Friday. “This is an extremely sad day.

I am deeply grieved by his passing. I first met Dr. Manmohan Singh in 1991, during my initial tenure in the Lok Sabha. He served as the Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao’s government and took several measures to stabilize the country’s economic situation during a period of extreme crisis. At the time, India had even pledged 130 tons of gold. It was a grim scenario, but Manmohan Singh managed his responsibilities with remarkable competence,” Devegowda said. “I had criticized him a lot and questioned many of his policies. However, his introduction of economic reforms—liberalization, privatization, and globalization—brought substantial change and progress to the country. It was a monumental development,” he added.

The JD(S) patriarch also heaped praise on Singh for his humility and honesty. “He was a statesman and a senior leader who served the country for decades. His passing at the age of 92 is a great personal loss for me. May God grant his soul eternal peace and his family the courage to endure this sorrow.”

Kumaraswamy pays respects

Union Minister for Heavy Industries, Steel and Public Enterprises HD Kumaraswamy attended a Cabinet meeting in New Delhi, condoling the passing of Dr Singh, following which he visited the deceased PM’s residence and laid a wreath and offered comfort to his family.

“Dr Manmohan Singh’s vision and leadership have left an indelible mark on the country. His service to the nation, both as an economist and as the Prime Minister, will always be remembered with gratitude. We have lost a guiding light, and his absence will be deeply felt,” Kumaraswamy said.