Patil sworn in as new Sikkim Guv

SNS, Gangtok, 21 July 2013: Mr Shriniwas Dadasaheb Patil was today sworn in as the Governor of Sikkim in a programme organised at Ashirwad Hall, Raj Bhawan here on 20 July. President Pranab Mukherjee had appointed 72-year-old Patil as the sixteenth governor succeeding Balmiki Prasad Singh. 

Sikkim High Court Chief Justice Pius C Kuriakose administered Patil the oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony attended by Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, his cabinet colleagues, former CM Nar Bahadur Bhandari and other leaders. 

Earlier, Chief Secretary R Ongmu read the warrant of appointment issued from the Rastrapati Bhawan. The function was also witnessed by Mrs Rajanidevi Patil, wife of Shriniwas Dadasaheb Patil. 

The new governor in his message on taking charge said he is aware of the special Constitutional provisions under Article 371F which preserve Sikkim’s unique identity and his office. 

Born on 11 April 1941, in Satara District of Maharashtra, Mr Patil, a former Indian Administrative Service officer was also the member of the 13th and 14th Lok Sabha of India. He represented Karad constituency of Maharashtra. 

In national politics, Mr Patil’s appointment as the Sikkim Governor is seen as the Congress led UPA’s aim to please NCP chief Mr Sharad Pawar as Mr Srinivas Patil is said to be his close friend.