Singh focused on freedom of expression at Presi’s 200th anniv, his last speech in Kol
Times of India | 28 December 2024
Kolkata: Ex-PM Manmohan Singh's cautionary words on the threat to freedom of expression and independent thinking were at the forefront of the minds of most Presidency University officials and alumni when they learned of his death.
Singh's visit to the campus on Jan 20, 2017, on the occasion of Presidency's 200th Founders' Day, was also his last to the city. Singh visited the campus with his wife, Gursharan Kaur, at the request of the Alumni Association and delivered the bicentennial address of Hindoo-Presidency at Derozio Hall. Ignoring his SPG protocol, he smilingly met all the students. They ate a Bengali lunch and loved the fish preparation. His speech highlighted excellence in education and freedom of expression.
Presidency former VC Anuradha Lohia recalled Singh's understated yet impactful presence. She noted the couple's simplicity, mentioning Kaur's fondness for "chholar-daal". Singh demonstrated extensive knowledge of Presidency College's history and its notable alumni whilst maintaining remarkable humility. "We have lost not just a former PM or an world-class economist; we have lost a very profound human being," she said.
University registrar Debojyoti Konar described meeting Singh as extraordinary. His closing speech at the Global Education Summit left the audience in Derozio Hall momentarily silent before receiving a standing ovation. Alumni Association vice-president Bivas Chaudhuri recounted Singh's cordial interactions with students and his memorable address.
Former Rajya Sabha member Jawhar Sircar shared personal encounters with Singh, including a private tea session and a later visit to Singh's Delhi residence. "I asked him how retired life was, though he was still very active as the most respected Opposition leader in the Rajya Sabha. He asked me whether I was back to writing and my passion for historical and social studies. He remembered that and it filled my heart," Sircar recounted
Educationist Sukanta Chaudhuri highlighted Singh's support for the Bichitra website project during Tagore's 150th birth anniversary celebrations. Singh's personal involvement, alongside Pranab Mukherjee, facilitated swift project approval and resolution of administrative challenges.