MMS memorial: Cong accuses govt of having 'hidden agenda'

It should be explained why the government is showing such disrespect to a great leader K C VENUGOPAL, AICC general secretary

- Press Trust of India

ALAPPUZHA: The Congress on Sunday alleged that union government could not identify a designated space for performing the last rites of former PM Manmohan Singh, where a memorial could be built later, as it intervened in the matter with a "hidden agenda".

It has long been the practice to set up a memorial at the same place where the last rites are performed. However, the BJP-led Union government mishandled the issue and worsened the situation, the party alleged.

Speaking to reporters here, AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal said that not only the Congress party but also the Shiromani Akali Dal had harshly criticised the Union government on the matter.

"A designated space was not found for Manmohan Singh's last rites and memorial because the central government intervened in the matter with a specific hidden agenda," he alleged.

The Congress leader also wanted a discussion on the "brutal approach" and lapses on the part of the Centre. "It should be explained why the government is showing such disrespect to a great leader who rose to the post of Prime Minister from the Sikh community," Venugopal said.