Manmohan Singh: 'Prime Minister in BMW who always missed Maruti'

LUCKNOW: UP social welfare minister and former IPS officer, Asim Arun, recalled Manmohan Singh as a courteous, humble and extremely punctual leader.

He told TOI that he was part of the Close Protection Team (CPT) of the Special Protection Group or SPG - the elite force responsible for the PM's security - from 2004 to 2008 and had the opportunity to witness Manmohan Singh's exemplary qualities first hand.

"I was his bodyguard for three years since I was the assistant inspector general in the CPT. The SPG maintains the innermost security ring for the PM - the Close Protection Team, which I had the honour to lead," said Asim.

"The assistant inspector general in CPT remains like a shadow with the PM," he said. Asim recounted that Dr Saheb possessed only one personal vehicle - a Maruti 800 - which would remain parked behind the gleaming black BMW at the PM House. "Manmohan Singhji would frequently tell me: 'Asim, I dislike travelling in this vehicle (BMW); my car is that one (Maruti)'," he recounted.

"Sir, this vehicle isn't for luxury, rather its protective features are SPG requirements. I would tell him. Nevertheless, whenever the convoy passed the Maruti, the PM would fondly gaze at his prized possession," said Asim. "It reflected on his humble background and his priority for common man's welfare," recalled the minister.

Dr Saheb's steadfast punctuality profoundly influenced me. He was on time for every appointment an thereby setting an exemplary standard for his staff. His gracious demeanour impressed all. Whether engaging with international dignitaries or household staff, he had the same courtesy, said Asim.

"The former PM's poise during challenging circumstances was noteworthy. Amid crisis, while others might falter, Dr Saheb remained calm and evaluated situations before reaching measured conclusions," said the former IPS officer.

His leadership steered India's economic transformation, guiding the nation from fiscal uncertainty towards establishing a robust market economy, concluded Asim.


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