President Pranab Mukherjee todaypraised the courage and tenacity of the Delhi gang rape victimand asked people to redouble efforts for women's protection.
In a message on the eve of Christmas, the Presidentexpressed "anguish and distress" over the horrific attack onthe 23-year-old girl in the national capital on December 16.
"We mark Christmas at a time when the nation is joined inanguish and distress over the recent horrific attack on ayoung girl in New Delhi," he said.
There have been wide spread protests across the city,including in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan over the weekend,with agitated youths demanding swift action against theperpetrators of the heinous crime.
"I laud the courage and tenacity of this young lady andher family. On this Christmas day, let us join in prayer forthe full and speedy recovery of this strong and courageousgirl," the President said.
The President, who devoted a significant portion of hiscustomary message to the rape incident which has outraged thenation, asked the countrymen to resolve to "redouble efforts"for the protection of women and their welfare.
"Let us strive to ensure that women feel safe and secureat all times in our country," he said.
"May the Christmas bells dispel hatred and violence. Asthe world lights candles for Christmas this year, may thespirit of caring and sharing pervade our beings," Mukherjeesaid.
The President asked people to renew minds and hearts withthe teachings of love and compassion of Jesus Christ andrecalled his sacrifice for humanity.