New Delhi: Rajasthan Governor Pratibha Patil arrived in Delhi on Saturday to gear up for the presidential election as a nominee of the UPA camp. In her first words after landing at the Delhi Airport, Pratibha Patil termed her nomination for the Presidentship "as a big step towards empowerment of women."
"My nomination for the top post reflected the respect women get in India and it would encourage the fairer sex," she declared.
Soon after her arrival, Patil went straightaway to 10 Janpath to meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and discussed matters related to the Presidential election. "I am very happy to be selected as the UPA candidate," 72-year-old Patil said.
Patil later met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his 7 Race Cross Road residence. She was also scheduled to meet other political leaders later in the day.
Patil said her candidature would 'inspire' other women and help in their empowerment. "(But) empowerment will not come automatically. They will have to work for it," Patil said as curious passengers at Delhi Airport made a beeline to catch of glimpse of a possible first woman president of the country.
Asked about the Women's Reservation Bill, Patil said the Parliament would decide it. Patil, wearing a white saree with maroon border, was received at the airport with bouquets by senior Congress leaders PR Dasmunsi, Oscar Fernandes, Suresh Pachouri and Motilal Vohra.
Delayed by over one hour due to inclement weather, she arrived by a Go-Air flight. Vijendra Singh Shekhawat, cousin of her husband Devi Singh Shekhawat — who looks after the educational institutions owned by the latter — was also present at the airport.
(With PTI inputs)
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