The farewell began minutes after the Upper House met for the day. Initiating the process, the Prime Minister said every two years the Rajya Sabha witnesses this scenario where 1/3rd of its members retire and the House receives fresh energy, enthusiasm from new members. “Some are leaving only to return to the House while the others are leaving not to do so,” he said.
While wishing the best to all the members bidding goodbye to the House, Modi made a special mention of Manmohan Singh, saying he served six terms in the House in different roles and the manner in which he provided “margadarshan (guidance)” to the Rajya Sabha and to the nation is commendable.
“His contribution will definitely be long remembered,” Modi said, adding that during a vote on an important issue, Singh came in a wheelchair though he knew well that the government had the numbers and the opposition would lose. Applauding Singh’s commitment, the PM said, “He came not just to cast his vote but to strengthen democracy.”
Leader of the opposition Mallikarjun Kharge also praised the role of Manmohan Singh and thanked PM Modi for his gesture while he took a dig at former PM Deve Gowda for joining hands with the BJP for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Despite Kharge’s criticism, Gowda praised him as an upright politician. He also said Manmohan Singh had cried when the 2G scam occurred during his prime ministership.
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