Demitting the gubernatorial office after the completion of his term, Punjab’s outgoing Governor Shivraj Patil on Thursday recalled the “unstinted cooperation” extended to him by the people, officers, Ministers and leaders of the various political parties and above all Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.
Patil, in his farewell address punctuated with sentiments, said that he would ever remain indebted to Punjab and its people for the support, cooperation, love and affection showered upon him during his stint as the constitutional head of the State.
In an emotionally surcharged speech, said that he was overwhelmed by the several pleasant memories while discharging his duties as the Governor of Punjab and administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh, which would ever remain his treasure.
Patil said that his formidable strength was the smooth cooperation and support given by the people while rendering services to this coveted office efficaciously to the satisfaction of general public.
He said that this approach also helped him to take decisions absolutely in a free, impartial and unbiased manner probably, which was the hallmark of the administration of any constitutional office.
Striking a nostalgic note, Patil said: “My mind is filled with countless memories which I am unable to express in words but these will ever remain afresh on my mind and act as a source of inspiration for me”.
Earlier, Badal felicitated Patil on the occasion and wished him a pleasant, prosperous and healthy life ahead. Badal had also thrown a dinner in Patil’s honour on Wednesday which was attended by states ministers and senior leaders.
later, the outgoing Governor accompanied by Director General of Police (DGP) Sumedh Singh Saini took a salute from the contingent of Punjab Police band.
Apart from this, senior functionaries of civil and police administration of Punjab and Chandigarh also attended the farewell function.
Meanwhile, Haryana Governor Kaptan Singh Solani later sworn in as Punjab Governor in addition to his wn duties. He was administered the oath of office by the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Justice Shiavax Jal Vazifdar at Punjab Raj Bhavan.
The simple ceremony was attended by Punjab Chief Minister, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar lal Khattar, Chandigarh MP Kiron Kher, High Court judges, Adviser to the UT Administrator Vijay Kumar Dev and other dignitaries from Punjab and Haryana.