NEW DELHI: The govt has "earmarked" a site at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal for a memorial to late President Pranab Mukherjee. This comes amid speculation of the govt earmarking a site for former PM Manmohan Singh's memorial very soon. Singh's family is likely to visit sites shortlisted by the govt at Smriti Sthal and adjoining areas in the Raj Ghat precinct soon, sources said.
Earmarking of the site for Mukherjee's memorial was made public by the late President's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee in a tweet on Tuesday after meeting PM Modi. The land and development office (L&DO) under the housing and urban affairs ministry earmarked the site on Jan 1. Sources said as per norms, the site will be allotted to a trust after it is set up.
The order said, "The competent authority has approved earmarking of a designated site within 'Rashtriya Smriti' complex (a part of Raj Ghat precinct) for erecting a samadhi of late Pranab Mukherjee, former President." In a post on X, Pranab's daughter Sharmistha said, "Called on PM Narendra Modi to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his govt's decision to create a memorial for baba. It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it.
Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM...
Baba used to say that state honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour baba's memory. It doesn't affect baba where he is now - beyond applaud or criticism.
But for h.
