President telephones Thackeray to enquire about health

Mumbai: President Pranab Mukherjee telephoned ailing Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray to enquire after his health, the party said Sunday. A statement in party mouthpiece Saamna said the president made detailed enquiries about Thackeray`s health during the telephone call Saturday.

Concerns were raised about Thackeray`s health in the party after he could not attend the annual Shiv Sena Dassehra rally at Shivaji Park last Wednesday. The 86-year-old leader addressed the party workers through a video message. During the brief speech, Thackeray appeared to be breathless, at times incoherent and feeling tired. In fact he admitted that he was feeling "weary" and unwell. Mukherjee enjoys a special rapport with Thackeray, who extended his party`s unconditional support to him during the presidential election four months ago. In a return gesture, despite a busy schedule during his first visit to Mumbai last fortnight, Mukherjee took time out to meet Thackeray. IANS