I will remain stead-fast in my commitments: Pratibha Patil

Puducherry, July 5 (UNI) UPA Presidential candidate Pratibha Patil today said in spite of all attempts to tarnish her image she will remain stead-fast in her commitments to serve the people of the country.

Addressing a joint meeting of the Legislators and Parliament members in the Union Territory, to seek their support for herself in the July 19 Presidential election, Ms Patil said she would continue to serve the nation with humility and commitment.

''We believe that economic growth has to be benefitted by all sections of the society - the poor, disadvantaged, dalit, tribal, minorities, OBCs, youth, men and women,'' she said, and added that the fundamental creed of our Constitution was Secularism, having equal respect for all faith, combined with social harmony.

She recalled the immense hardships faced by the father of the nation and countless men and women during the independence struggle.

Ms Patil said she regarded her nomination as a victory for millions of citizens of the country.

Later, she left for Chennai, enroute to Thiruvananthapuram.

UNI