India, Oct. 21 -- Australian federal lawmaker Helen Haines has had both legs amputated and remains in critical condition after being struck repeatedly by a car in what appears to be an act of political violence, her husband said on Wednesday.

The 65-year-old independent politician is receiving treatment in a Melbourne hospital where she was flown by helicopter, reported The Associated Press.

Phil Haines, her husband, gave the family's first public comments on her condition since she was hit by a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV in her hometown of Wangaratta on Monday, speaking hours after a man accused of running her over made an initial appearance in court.

Helen Haines' husband said that her left leg was amputated on Monday and her right leg ...