CM Stalin Pays Tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh and E.V.K.S. Elangovan at Portrait Unveiling Ceremony

Honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M.K. Stalin, today (7th January 2025), at the Kamarajar Hall, delivered a speech during the portrait unveiling and homage event for former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and former Tamil Nadu Congress Committee leader Mr. E.V.K.S. Elangovan.

In this significant event, which included the unveiling of the portrait of Dr. Manmohan Singh—an exemplary leader of the nation—and the portrait unveiling and homage for Mr. E.V.K.S. Elangovan, a revered leader of the Tamil Nadu Congress and a former Member of the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt greetings to the Tamil Nadu Congress President, Mr. Selvaperunthagai; Congress leaders, including prominent dignitaries and supporters; former and current ministers; members of Parliament and the Legislative Assembly; family members and associates of Mr. E.V.K.S. Elangovan; Congress veteran Mr. P. Chidambaram and other senior leaders, well-wishers, and friends from the media fraternity.

Dr. Manmohan Singh was a pillar of strength for the Indian National Congress on a national level, while Mr. E.V.K.S. Elangovan was a monumental figure for the Tamil Nadu Congress. Losing these two stalwarts consecutively is a great loss, not just for the nation or the party, but also on a personal level for those who knew them closely. Dr. Manmohan Singh was not a traditional politician but rose to prominence through his wisdom and expertise. On the other hand, Mr. Elangovan hailed from a distinguished political lineage, being the grandson of the rationalist leader Periyar’s associate, Mr. E.V. Ramasamy Sampath, and carried forward that legacy with dedication.

It is noteworthy that during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister, Mr. Elangovan served as a minister, contributing significantly to the textile sector. Today, we deeply mourn the loss of these two eminent leaders, whose contributions spanned beyond national boundaries and left a lasting impact on global economic policies.

Dr. Manmohan Singh was a person of great simplicity and integrity. If he had chosen to, he could have lived a peaceful and quiet life, free from the chaos and pressures of politics. Such a life is often admired by economists and thinkers. However, unexpectedly, he entered politics and took on the role of Finance Minister. He accepted this responsibility during a critical and challenging time, leaving a mark on history as one of India’s most significant Finance Ministers. The economic policies and reforms he introduced laid the foundation for India’s growth.

In 2004, when the Prime Minister’s chair became vacant, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) formed the government. Though the natural choice for the position was Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, due to her leadership, not just Dr. Manmohan Singh but many senior leaders expected her to take on the role. However, she declined the position and entrusted it to Dr. Manmohan Singh, showcasing her selflessness and political maturity.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, who neither sought power nor was deeply political by nature, served as the Prime Minister not once but twice, leading the country for ten years. His tenure witnessed the implementation of numerous revolutionary policies and reforms, many of which were transformative and immeasurable. Some of the significant achievements during his leadership include:

• The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
• Laws to combat violence against women
• The Right to Information Act
• The Right to Education Act
• The National Food Security Act
• The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act
• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act
• The Land Acquisition Act, ensuring fair compensation
• The law to abolish manual scavenging
• The Women’s Reservation Bill in the Rajya Sabha
• The introduction of Aadhaar
• India’s transition to 3G technology, marking the country’s first step toward advanced telecommunications
• Affordable nationwide mobile communication with a 50-paise rate per minute

These initiatives are just a few examples of Dr. Manmohan Singh’s visionary leadership. During his ten years as Prime Minister, 21 individuals from Tamil Nadu served as Union Ministers—eight Cabinet Ministers and 13 Ministers of State—highlighting his inclusive approach to governance.

During Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister, Tamil Nadu witnessed unparalleled progress. His administration brought numerous critical projects to the state, many of which continue to impact Tamil Nadu positively. Dr. Manmohan Singh played a pivotal role in several historic developments, including the recognition of Tamil as a classical language, a milestone that remains etched in history.

Some of the key contributions to Tamil Nadu during his leadership include:

• Establishment of the Central Institute of Classical Tamil in Chennai.
• Introduction of a new railway zone headquartered in Salem.
• Creation of a National Siddha Research Institute in Tambaram.
• Upgrading the Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College in Salem into a super-specialty hospital.
• Founding a Central University in Tiruvarur.
• Establishing the Indian Maritime University.
• Developing 3,276 km of national highways into four-lane roads.
• Setting up a central institute for research on automotive technologies in Oragadam.
• Modernizing Salem Steel Plant at a cost of ₹1,553 crore, including the addition of a new cold rolling mill.
• Launching the Chennai Port–Maduravoyal Elevated Corridor Project.
• Implementing a seawater desalination project in Nemmeli.
• Introducing metro rail services in Chennai.
• Initiating the Hogenakkal Integrated Drinking Water Project.
• Building over 6,000 km of rural and national highways.
• Commencing the long-pending Sethusamudram Project in Tamil Nadu.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s governance ensured Tamil Nadu received unprecedented development projects, strengthening the state’s infrastructure and growth trajectory. His close friendship with Tamil leaders, including former Chief Minister Kalaignar Karunanidhi, played a vital role in facilitating these projects. His unwavering commitment to Tamil Nadu’s welfare earned him immense respect as a champion of the state’s aspirations.

The loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh is an irreplaceable one, not just for the nation but particularly for Tamil Nadu. His contributions to the state remain invaluable, and his demise marks a profound void.

Similarly, the passing of respected leader Mr. E.V. K.S. Elangovan is another immense loss that words cannot describe. Every time we met, he would kindly inquire about my health, and I would reciprocate the concern. His warmth and genuine care left a lasting impression.

“You are doing this, and that optimism will surely save us,” he said with assurance. However, his health deteriorated, and he was admitted to the hospital, where he passed away at home, surrounded by family. “I must meet him,” he had said to those at his home. After receiving this news, I immediately rushed to the hospital, but by the time I arrived, it was too late. Unfortunately, he had passed away before I could see him. His son, Thirumagan E.S.V. Ramanathan, informed me of his death, and I offered my condolences to him. After the loss of his father, Elangovan continued to serve as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), representing the constituency in the Tamil Nadu legislature. But even that joy was short-lived, as he too left us far too soon. This was an irreplaceable loss that I can hardly express in words.

The Tamil Nadu Congress family lost not just a great leader but also a steadfast friend to prominent figures like E.S.V. Sampath, who was an unwavering ally to Dr. Kalaignar Karunanidhi and a constant source of support for Tamil Nadu’s progress. Even after parting ways with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Sampath remained an influential figure who could not be criticized by others.

Mr. Elangovan, a man of principles, was always candid, fearless, and resolute in his views, whether in agreement or disagreement. His stance was always clear and firm. As an MLA from Eemaraadu East, he worked diligently to explain the Dravida model of governance, showcasing its success. He often spoke of the “real Kamraj rule” with pride and conviction.

Born into a political family, Mr. Elangovan, a devout leader, was a staunch advocate of the Dravida model of governance, a testament to which remains in his continued dedication to Tamil Nadu’s progress. Throughout his time as a Congress leader, whether in the legislative assembly or parliament, he made his mark with integrity and dedication to his work.

Similarly, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s long tenure, despite challenges, continues to be a symbol of steady leadership. Whether aged or in a wheelchair, he continued to fulfill his duties in parliament, a true testament to his dedication to the nation.

Both these leaders have left an indelible mark, and their loss is irreplaceable. On behalf of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, I offer my deepest tribute to their memory. May their contributions continue to inspire.

Thank you! Greetings!