by PTI
New Delhi: Rich tributes were paid to late President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed on Sunday May 13th, on the occassion of his 102nd birth anniversary. His birth is being observed as “National Solidarity Day”. While President A P J Abdul Kalam sent a greeting on the occasion, a wreath was placed on behalf of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by Home Minister Shivraj Patil at the mausoleum of the late President opposite Parliament House here.
“Ahmed was an ardent nationalist, a freedom fighter and an able administrator who played an important role in the freedom struggle. He represented our tradition of secular ethos. His selfless service, humanism and deep sensitivity will always be remembered,” the President said in a letter to Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Committee.
The President also wished good luck to the committee which is organising a month-long campaign for national unity and integrity beginning today. The Committee Chief Maulana Shabbir Naqshbandi said the day is being observed as National Solidarity day.The two sons of the late President, Dr Parvez Ahmed, Chief Executive Office, Max Health (U.S) and Justice Badar Durrez Ahmed, Judge Delhi High Court were also present.
Diplomats from several Muslim countries including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Morocco and Egypt were also present on the occasion and offered floral tributes to the late President.