Who were the Accidental Prime Ministers of India? PV Narasimha Rao vs Manmohan Singh

In the annals of Indian politics, two Prime Ministers stand out for their controversial and unexpected ascensions to power: PV Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh. While both served as the leader of India, the circumstances and experiences of their presidencies were starkly different. Let's delve into why Narasimha Rao is often referred to as the 'accidental Prime Minister,' and how his legacy contrasts with that of Manmohan Singh.

Narasimha Rao: The Accidental Prime Minister

When PV Narasimha Rao assumed office in June 1991, he was not a Phase-I candidate nor a favorite of the Congress party. In fact, he was chosen as a compromise candidate to head the party. His unexpected selection led to his becoming the first and, as some argue, the last 'accidental Prime Minister' of India. This designation is not merely a play on words; it reflects the unexpected and somewhat accidental nature of his tenure.

The Immediate Challenges

On taking office, Narasimha Rao inherited a country beset by crisis. The Indian economy was deteriorating, and the global economic landscape was vastly different from what it had been in the 1980s. The Soviet Union was on the brink of collapse, and the rise of the U.S. as a superpower was altering the global economic landscape. Narasimha Rao faced immense pressure to stabilize the situation.

A Bold Economic Reforms Initiative

One of Narasimha Rao's most notable achievements was the initiation of the economic reforms known as 'New Economic Policy.' This bold move aimed to open up the Indian economy and liberalize the financial sector. The reforms were crucial in steering India towards a more market-oriented economy. while reversing decades of socialist economic policies, the New Economic Policy laid the groundwork for India's economic growth in the following decades.

A Disrespectful Reception

Despite his significant contributions, Narasimha Rao faced criticism and a lack of respect from his colleagues within the Congress party. Even as he took important decisions as the Prime Minister, none of the party leaders attended his state funeral. This lack of support was indicative of the wider issue of political infighting and a growing disconnect between the party and its leadership.

Narasimha Rao's legacy continues to be stained by the Hyderabad Merger crisis, which occurred in 1948. The issue of the Deccan States Union and its integration into the Indian Union remains controversial. Despite his role in this crisis, he has not received a proper memorial in New Delhi, and his body was denied entry into the party office. Further, his last rites were conducted in his native state on the orders of the high command of the Congress party, a gesture that somewhat underlines the party's disinterest in honoring him.

Manmohan Singh: The Prime Minister Serving in Government Service

In contrast to Narasimha Rao's unexpected ascension, Manmohan Singh's journey to the top of India's political hierarchy was more traditional. He served as the Union Minister for Finance and Foreign Affairs, laying the groundwork for his eventual elevation to the position of Prime Minister in 2004.

The Routine of Governance

When Manmohan Singh became the Prime Minister, he brought with him a wealth of experience in governance. As Union Ministers, his departments dealt with major government policies and he had a chance to familiarize himself with the intricacies of the job. It is important to note that while all the important files did go to the party office when he was in government service, this does not necessarily reflect a lack of diligence or hard work. As a seasoned bureaucrat, Manmohan Singh's candidature was widely admired and his rise to power was seen as a well-deserved promotion based on merit.

The Legacy of Economic Leadership

As Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh pressed on with the economic reforms and oversaw the UPA governance from 2004 to 2014. His efforts to stabilize the Indian economy and promote inclusive growth have left a lasting impact on India's economic narrative.

While both PV Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh served as Prime Ministers of India, their experiences and legacies are markedly different. Narasimha Rao's accidental journey to power and the challenges he faced highlight the importance of adapting to unexpected circumstances. On the other hand, Manmohan Singh's seasoned and principled approach to governance stands as a testament to the value of experience and commitment in leading a country.