Kailash Satyarthi, Malala Yousufzai hailed by Indian leaders

NEW DELHI: Child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi and Pakistani girl rights activist Malala Yousufzai were today hailed for getting the Nobel Peace Prize by India's top leadership, including President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi.

In his congratulatory message, Mukherjee said, "The prize should be seen as recognition of the contributions of India's vibrant civil society in addressing complex social problems such as child labour and the important role played by them in collaboration with the government in the nation's efforts to eliminate all forms of child labour in the country."

Extending his "heartiest congratulations", Ansari said, "This is a richly deserved recognition for two remarkable human beings, who have worked tirelessly and fearlessly, against all odds, to protect and promote the rights of the child.

"While we salute the two laureates on their achievement, it is my hope that the path shown by them would inspire us to work together towards eradicating the deplorable crimes and injustices inflicted daily upon children in our society."

Modi, while congratulating Satyarthi, said "The entire nation is proud of his momentous achievement. Kailash Satyarthi has devoted his life to a cause that is extremely relevant to entire humankind. I salute his determined efforts."

Applauding Malala on getting the recognition, Modi said that her life's journey has been of immense grit and courage.

"Malala Yousafzai's life is a journey of immense grit & courage. I congratulate her on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize," he said.

Expressing happiness over the honour for Satyarthi and Malala, Gandhi said the awards have brought "glory to the entire South Asia".