Gandhinagar: First-time MLA Bhupendra Patel took oath as the 17th chief minister of Gujarat in a swearing in ceremony held in Gandhinagar on Monday. Governor Acharya Devvrat delivered the oath of office and secrecy.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and chief ministers of four BJP-ruled states attended the ceremony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Bhupendra Patel on taking oath as CM of Gujarat. "I've known him for years & have seen his exemplary work, be it in the BJP Organisation or in civic administration and community service," PM tweeted.

Outgoing chief minister Vijay Rupani said, " Bhupendra Patel is capable. We believe BJP will win the upcoming elections in the state under his leadership".

Bhupendra Patel is an MLA from the Ghatlodia seat earlier held by Anandiben Patel. He is said to be a protege of former Gujarat chief minister Anandiben Patel.

After he was named the chief minister, Gujarat CM-elect Bhupendra Patel met Governor Acharya Devvrat at Raj Bhavan in Gandhinagar. Former CM Vijay Rupani and state BJP chief CR Patil were present.

Gujarat Deputy CM Nitin Patel, who was reported to be one of the contenders for the CM post, said, "Bhupendra Patel is my old family friend. I congratulated him. We will be happy to see him take oath as CM. He has also asked for my guidance whenever needed".

"I'm not upset (on the party naming Bhupendra Patel as CM). I've been working in BJP since I was 18 and will keep on working. Whether I get a position in the party or not, I will continue serving in the party," he said.

"Union Minister Amit Shah is coming to Gujarat today. I am going to receive him at the airport," said Nitin Patel.