BJP Rajya Sabha MP and former Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma was appointed Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Saturday, according to a late-night announcement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Sharma, 62, will replace Admiral D K Joshi (retd), who has held the post of Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory since October 8, 2017.
“The President of India is pleased to appoint Dr Dinesh Sharma as Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office,” the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.
After his appointment, Sharma expressed his gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and the BJP’s central leadership through a post on X.
“Hon'ble President, Hon'ble Prime Minister, Hon'ble Home Minister, and the party's central leadership -- my heartfelt thanks,” Sharma wrote.
He also thanked senior leaders, supporters, friends, well-wishers and citizens for their continued encouragement and blessings. Sharma said the new role was more than simply a position, describing it as a responsibility towards the Constitution, the country and public service.
“I pledge to fulfill this duty with complete devotion, honesty, and dedication,” he said, while expressing hope that he would continue to receive their support, trust and blessings.
A former deputy chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, Sharma currently represents the BJP in the Rajya Sabha and serves as the House’s vice chairperson. His tenure as a member of the Upper House was scheduled to conclude on November 25.
