TIL Desk/National/New Delhi/ Members of Parliament on Sunday bid adieu to outgoing President Pranab Mukherjee at a gala ceremony in the Central Hall of Parliament as leaders recalled his contribution in upholding democratic values.
Mukherjee, 81, was received by Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar at Parliament for the farewell ceremony.
In her speech, Mahajan said, “This is a solemn occasion for each one of us to express our profound respect to President Mukherjee.”Ansari lauded Mukherjee for his “unshakable belief in the idea of India” and said he often appealed to the people to re-dedicate themselves to the democratic values of the country.
Mukherjee also stressed upon pluralism and diversity “as the greatest strength” of the country, he said.Ansari also complimented Mukherjee for the manner in which he essayed the role of the president. “He brought great distinction and dignity to the top office. His views on national and international issues have enhanced the stature of the office,” he said.
