As the news broke out on Saturday evening that Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu had been elected India's new Vice-President, congratulations began to pour in from prominent politicians and ministers. Here's what they had to say.
Vice-President Elect M. Venkaiah Naidu: With all humility, I express my gratitude to every MP who supported my candidature cutting across party lines. I promise to uphold the Constitution and the high standards set by my esteemed predecessors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Congratulations to Venkaiah Naidu Garu on being elected India’s Vice President. My best wishes for a fruitful & motivating tenure. I am confident @MVenkaiahNaidu will serve the nation as a diligent & dedicated Vice President, committed to the the goal of nation building. My mind is filled with memories of working with @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu, in the Party & Government. Will cherish this aspect of our association.
Former governor and Opposition candidate Gopalkrishna Gandhi: Congratulations to Mr. Naidu. I wish him all the best in his new office of Vice-President. I like to thank all honourable MPs of the Parliament. I believe that the number that was voted was beyond the expect of all calculations. They all came together to vote for what they thought was for the national good - the right to hold a different opinion and the duty to serve the cause of pluralism and secularism in India.
BJP President Amit Shah: Heartiest congratulations to Shri Venkaiah Naidu ji on winning the Vice-Presidential poll. The journey of Naidu ji, a farmer' son, to the office of Vice President is the victory of every small farmer contributing to nations growth. I am sure Venkaiah Naidu ji's extensive knowledge and vast experience will be a great asset to the office of Vice-President & Rajya Sabha.
Former Karnataka Chief Minister Sadananda Gowda: Heartfelt congratulations to Shri Venkaiah Naidu ji for being elected as Vice President of India.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu: Congratulations to Sri Venkaiah Naidu Garu on being elected as the Vice President of India. A very well-deserved victory indeed. Wish Sri Venkaiah Naidu Garu a successful journey as he embarks upon his new duties. He will surely lead the nation with wisdom & grace.
Former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram: Congratulations to Shri Venkaiah Naidu on his election as VP. Welcome him as Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Textile Minister Smriti Irani: Congratulations to Vice-President Elect Venkaiah Naidu ji. We are confident his leadership would further enrich the Office of VP.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan: Congratulations Shri Venkaiah Naidu Ji for being elected as the Vice President of India. My best wishes for a fruitful tenure. Your Parliamentary experience, Constitutional knowledge, and humble nature will help strengthen the democratic process in Rajya Sabha.
