President, VP, PM, others wish Mahajan speedy recovery

New Delhi, Apr 22 (UNI) President A P J Abdul Kalam, Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh were among a host of leaders who expressed shock at the attack on BJP leader Pramod Mahajan today and wished him speedy recovery.

Among others who expressed similar sentiments were former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

''I wish him a speedy recovery,'' Dr Kalam said in a message.

In a letter sent to Mr Mahajan's wife, Rekha, Mr Shekhawat said he was ''deeply disturbed'' by the murderous attack on his ''dear friend.'' ''Mr Mahajan is a true nationalist committed to the service of people. He is bestowed with rare qualities of head and heart. We have hope in him. Myself and my wife are with you in this hour of anxiety and join you in praying to god to his early recovery, good health and long life,'' Mr Shekhawat said.

Before leaving on an overseas tour, Dr Singh said, ''I learnt with shock about the unfortunate incident today and about the injury suffered by your husband as a consequence.

Please convey my good wishes to Pramodji, and my prayers for his early recovery.'' Ms Gandhi said she was shocked to hear of the grievous attack.

In a message to Ms Rekha, she said, ''I sincerely hope that he fully recovers at the earliest. My thoughts are with you and your family,'' she said.

UNI TEAM PA DS1730