Ansari felicitated in RS on second term as VP

'His re-election was a tribute to his qualities,' says PM

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today led the Rajya Sabha in felicitating Hamid Ansari on his second term as Vice President and Chairman of the House, saying his re-election was a tribute to his qualities.

When the House met for the day, Prime Minister stood up to felicitate and congratulate Ansari, who took oath as the Vice President for his second term on Saturday.

"In you we have a distinguished personality who has served the country in diverse fields...You have served the country with great distinction," Singh said, referring to Ansari's illustrious career as a diplomat and academician.

He said in all the roles given to him, Ansari has "served the country with great distinction."

"That you have been chosen for a second term, is a tribute to your qualities," he said.

Singh said it was "good fortune" that Ansari has been presiding over the Upper House. "Our government will extend fullest possible cooperation in smooth functioning of the House," he said.

As Ansari's family watched from visitor's gallery, leaders from all parties heaped praise on his illustrious career, his simplicity and the most dignified manner in which he conducted the House during the past five years.

Leader of the Opposition Arun Jaitley said Ansari had a record of public service before he assumed the office of Vice President for the first time five years ago.

Ansari occupying the Vice President's post for the second time "adds to dignity of the office," he said.

"It requires both art and science in administering and running the House," he said adding Ansari had given space to every kind of opinion.

Jaitley said he admired Ansari's quality of giving opportunity to every member to express his opinion in the House as well as in his chamber and his ability to ease tension.

Ansari's speeches are "best recorded documents" on varied subjects in contemporary times, he said.