Manmohan Singh terms Meira Kumar's election as a historic moment

New Delhi, June 3 (ANI): Terming Meira Kumar's election as momentous in the nation's history, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday congratulated her after she was unanimously elected Speaker of the 15th Lok Sabha.

"Madam Speaker, it's my proud privilege to greet you respectfully on behalf of the government and the people to country for being elected to be the Speaker of this august house. It is in many ways a historic occasion as for the first time a women has been elected that too a women from the Dalit community," Dr. Singh said.

With pride, he said, "By electing you, we pay homage to the womanhood of our country."

Remembering Kumar's father and former Deputy Prime Minister, the late Babu Jagjivan Ram for his contribution to the nation, he said, "She is the embodiment of all the qualities of the leader."

"You have a distinguished record of service to the country. I am sure this knowledge wisdom and experience will hold you in good stead in dealing with your responsibilities," he added.

Assuring full cooperation on behalf of his government, he said, "Full cooperation would be accorded to you in discharging your duties."

Leader of the House Pranab Mukherjee, Leader of the Opposition LK Advani, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) MP Basudev Acharya and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee also welcomed her unanimous election as Speaker.

Kumar's name was proposed by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and seconded by Advani besides leaders of several political parties.

Pro-tem Speaker Manikrao Gavit announced the decision of the House. (ANI)