Imphal, Aug 21 (IANS): Najma Heptulla, former Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was sworn-in on Sunday as the 18th Governor of Manipur.
The simple but impressive function was held at Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan here. Acting Chief Justice of High Court of Manipur Rakesh Ranjan Prasad administered the oath of office and secrecy to Heptulla.
Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, ministers and legislators were present at the ceremony. Also present were high-ranking civil, police and military officers.
Until July, Heptulla was a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's council of ministers. She resigned on July 12 as Minority Affairs Minister in line with the tacit rule within the BJP that politicians who have crossed 75 years of age should relinquish ministerial posts.
Heptullah said the first thing she would do as Governor is to study the rich culture of Manipur.