Thursday, July 28 2005 17:51 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: P D T Achary, former Secretary in Lok Sabha, will be the new Secretary General of the Lower House, succeeding G C Malhotra who retires on July 31.

This was announced by Speaker Somnath Chatterjee who appreciated the services of Malhotra in guiding the presiding officers and members on rules and procedures of the House.

Malhotra will continue his association as Honorary Officer of the House with the Speaker announcing that he will be given "a very special assignment".

Leader of the House Pranab Mukherjee, Deputy Leader of BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) V K Malhotra and leaders of other parties praised the work done by Malhotra and for his dedication and sense of clarity.

As members spoke of Malhotra's cheerful nature, Chatterjee quipped, "You have an angry Speaker and a smiling Secretary General".