PM, Sonia hail Patil's victory

New Delhi, July 21 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi today hailed the election of Ms Pratibha Patil as the country's 13th President, saying it marked the triumph of ''secular and democratic forces'' against the divisive elements.

''The vitory of Ms Pratibha Patil for the august office of the President is the victory of the forces which were against the politics of divisiveness,'' Dr Singh said, flashing victory sign along with UPA chairperson.

The Prime Minister, who visited 11 South Avenue residence of Ms Patil, accompanied by Ms Gandhi and a host of UPA leaders, said ''the victory would strengthen the country's secular and democratic credentials''.

A beaming Ms Gandhi said it was a ''special occasion'' in which a woman had been elected for the exalted office of the President for the first time after independence.

The UPA chairperson also thanked leaders of the UPA constituents, Left parties and especially BSP President Kumari Mayawati for ensuring the victory of Ms Patil.

CPI General Secretary A B Bardhan, who was also present, said it was a ''massive victory'', and those who voted against the UPA-Left candidate should reconcile themselves to the fact that ''Ms Patil is now the President''.

UNI