Pratibha Patil drops controversial Pune retirement plan

"What has pained the president the most is the fact that she is now being portrayed by some people as one who, by agreeing to accept a defence accommodation for her post retirement home, is insensitive to the cause of war widows and ex-servicemen," a statement issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

President Pratibha Patil

"But facts are to the contrary. She has always been proud of our brave jawans who are ever-ready to display their spirit of sacrifice while defending our borders. She has the highest regards for our war widows who have lost their dear ones for the sake of security and integrity of the nation," she added.

An organisation of ex-servicemen in Pune had claimed that over fives acres of land had been alloted for her residence after she leaves office at the end of her five-year-term in July.

"She chose not to react as she has always held herself answerable to the constitution of our country and her conscience. It was expected that once the facts were made public it would convince the concerned people. But despite clarifications given by the President's Secretariat, it is unfortunate that the misgivings continue to persist," the statement added.

"Hope this will put an end to all misgivings in this regard," it added.
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