BJP veteran Gulab Chand Kataria took oath as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh on Wednesday, declaring that these roles go beyond ceremonial duties and are meant for public service. “The President has given me the responsibility of Punjab. I will make every effort to carry it out like a good public servant. These posts are not decorations…they require serving the people,” asserted Kataria. With these resolute words, Kataria set the tone for his tenure, emphasizing his commitment to public service and his readiness to address the issues of the common people.
Kataria, a veteran BJP leader with over four decades of public service, highlighted his dedication to the welfare of the people. “In 40-45 years of public service, I have considered serving the people my ‘dharma’. Here too, I will make an effort to see how useful I can be in resolving the issues of the common people. Anyone can come to me and speak,” he said.
He maintained that the quality of his work would be evident after six months of scrutiny. When asked about his relationship with Punjab Chief Minister, Kataria diplomatically responded that time would reveal the nature of their interactions.
Kataria’s appointment comes after his tenure as Assam's Governor, marking his second gubernatorial role. His experience as the Governor of Assam and his extensive political career, including serving as Rajasthan’s home minister twice, are expected to be significant assets in his new role.
The ceremony at Punjab Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh was a momentous occasion, reflecting the importance of Kataria’s new responsibilities. The Punjab and Haryana High Court’s Chief Justice Sheel Nagu administered the oath of office, witnessed by prominent figures such as Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, besides the Cabinet Minister and top officers from the two states.
Kataria's swearing-in marks the beginning of a new chapter in Punjab’s governance, with the seasoned leader poised to bring his wealth of knowledge and dedication to the fore.
His predecessor, Banwarilal Purohit, resigned after nearly three years in office, with his tenure marked by occasional friction with the State Government, especially the Chief Minister Mann. The transition to Kataria is seen as an opportunity for renewed cooperation and progress.
Chief Minister Mann expressed optimism about working together with Kataria, acknowledging his vast experience and leadership qualities. “He is an eight-time MLA and one-time MP. He had been a Minister in the Rajasthan Government. He was also the Governor of Assam before this. So, we will utilize him, and together we will work for the welfare of the people of Punjab,” Mann said, after the swearing-in ceremony.
Kataria, 79, reiterated his focus on serving the public, stating, “I habitually work in tandem with everyone. I think we contested elections from different political parties, but the goal is to serve the people well.”
At the same time, he maintained that just like his predecessor, he will also be visiting border areas, all districts, and reviewing the state government’s work and initiatives.
The oath ceremony saw the attendance of several VIPs and dignitaries, with tight security and traffic advisories in place to ensure a smooth event. Approximately 200 guests from Rajasthan attended, highlighting Kataria’s deep-rooted connections and support. Punjab’s former Governor VP Singh Badnore, Kataria’s close friend, was also present.
A Veteran Politician's Journey
Born on October 13, 1944, in Delwara of Rajsamand in Rajasthan, Kataria has a distinguished political career. He holds an MA, BEd, and LLB, and before entering politics, he taught at a private school in Udaipur. His political journey began with the RSS during his college years, working closely with Jan Sangh stalwarts Sundar Singh Bhandari and Bhanu Kumar Shastri.
Kataria has been a constant presence in Rajasthan’s political landscape since 1993, winning multiple elections from Udaipur and other constituencies. His political roles include serving as Rajasthan's Home Minister twice and Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly.
