'Now my message will reach every Indian'

Ex-soldier thanks Patil; hopes he will be able to motivate more Indians to fight terror

Ex-soldier thanks Patil; hopes he will be able to motivate more Indians to fight terror

Prabhjit Singh, a handicapped ex-armyman who cycled across the country in memory of the martyrs of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been able to take his message to the First Citizen of the country.

After MiD DAY published a story about the former soldier's determination and courage to travel across all state capitals in the country on his modified bicycle, the President House has decided to Call On Singh for a meeting with President Pratibha Patil.

"President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, after reading the story, is immensely impressed with the brave act of Prabhjit Singh. She feels this kind of courageous act must be acknowledged," said Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to President Archana Datta. She also said the President House has decided to invite Singh for a Call On to meet the President at a convenient time.

Call On is an occasion when the President meets guests and interacts with them. "The dates are being finalized and we will soon inform Prabhjit about this," said Datta.

Meanwhile, Singh, who is unaware of the development, expressed his happiness and thanked "Madam President" for recognising his efforts.

"I don't have words. I have just returned from Ambala and I salute Madam President. Now I feel my efforts will be recognised by the citizens of this country and my message will reach the people," he said, while talking to MiD DAY.

Singh especially thanked the Indian Army for helping him in his endeavor. "There is a saying that once a soldier, always a soldier. I have not worn my olive green uniform in a long time but my spirit never died. I especially thank Additional Director General, Public Information, Indian Army, which financed my mission and helped me in all ways," Singh said.

Company for Lone crusader: Singh started his journey from hometown Ambala in Haryana on January 19 on the bicycle that didn't have the left brake. He is now looking forward to meet the families of 26/11 martyrs.u00a0Pic/MiD DAY

Cycle track
In his 170-day long cycle mission covering all state capitals, Singh, who has lost one foot and hand in a train accident, especially met school and college students. "I want to tell them nothing is impossible. India is a great nation and we have to love our traditions. Every citizen of this country must fiercely love the country. The Mumbai attack was not on Mumbai alone but on India and every soul must take a vow to live for the country," Singh said.