Soon after his unusual election as the fourth President of India, he addressed Srimathi Indira Gandhi as his daughter. - V. V. Giri

The youth of the country, who are the most potent force in building India to progress and in preserving its unity, have to be shown the right example and given the right lead. A spirit of self-introspection and dedication to national well-being will make us all go along the right path.

When he was declared elected [As President of India], a full-dress rehearsal was held a day before. The entire route from Rashtrapathi Bhavan to Parliament House was lined by troops in battle array. The two buildings were also surrounded by troops. Armoured vehicle and light tanks came out and a battery of filed guns was also stationed. I received calls from newspapers and news agencies if there was a coup by me or someone else! I replied to an Editor (who was a friend and whom I asked not to quote me that it was his [Giri’s] coup against Sanjiva Reddy!

Starting his career as a Trade Unionist when Trade Unionism was not prominent of public life, he came to occupy the highest office of this country, with dignity and charm. It was a day of Victory for the labour and Weaker Sections of the Society, when he became the President of India winning a political battle with popular support. He was a fearless champion of the cause of the poor and the working classes. He was always insisting upon cleaner methods in public life. As a labour leader he did not allow Trade Unions to be involved in political activities. He was a stalwart of Indian Nationalism.