'Nobody could doubt his integrity', says Prakash Karat as Left leaders remember Manmohan Singh

New Delhi: Prakash Karat, the then CPI(M) General Secretary who led the Left parties out of the UPA over Indo-US nuclear deal, on Friday said they had differences with former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over some issues but nobody could doubt his integrity, while acknowledging the "big contributions" made by the "important leader" to the country.

As Singh passed away on Thursday night at the age of 92, Karat said there were occasions when both sides had differences over the policies to be pursued and course of action that had to be taken but the important thing was that the former Prime Minister heard their views fully.

"There was mutual respect even though we had different views... Nuclear deal was one of them," Karat told reporters. He said the country has lost a "distinguished" leader and "eminent" economist who served in various capacities in government besides being the Prime Minister for ten years.

During that decade, he said, Singh upheld "secular and democratic values unlike in the present day" and in his first term implemented certain welfare measures, which was fully backed by the Left.

"Later, there were other policies, which were implemented and we did not agree. But nobody can doubt or question his integrity and his dedicated service to the country. Today, we all keenly feel the loss of such an important leaders who made big contributions to our country," he said.

Singh had been at loggerheads with the Left parties throughout his tenure, as they opposed his pro-reform policies. The breaking point was Indo-US nuclear and as Singh insisted on going ahead, Karat shepherded the Left parties to break ties with the UPA.

CPI General Secretary D Raja described Singh as one of the "finest leaders" and a man of "immense knowledge, humility and kindness".

"I had the opportunity of working closely with him during the UPA-1 government and...his humility and politeness in both personal and public life were unmatched and these qualities shone even in the most challenging of times," Raja said.

"His ability to engage with diverse views, his willingness to listen and his unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy made him a statesman who earned the respect of all, regardless of political affiliation," he said.

"Dr Singh leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, wisdom and dedication to the nation. He will be remembered not only for his achievements but also for the way he carried himself with grace and dignity in every aspect of his life," he further said.