Indian-American Kash Patel took office as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday. He was sworn in by taking the oath on the Bhagavad Gita, a symbolic gesture showing his heritage. Patel’s girlfriend along with his family were present by his side as he recited the oath, and other family members were seated in the front row during the event.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, where US Attorney General Pam Bondi administered Patel the oath after the Senate confirmed his name. He will be succeeding Christopher Wray as the FBI’s new chief.

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Pledge for accountability in FBI

‘’I am living the American dream,’’ Patel stated. ‘’Anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here. You are talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to head the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth. That can’t happen anywhere else,’’ as reported by ANI.

Patel pointed out that his leadership will focus on transparency and accountability inside the FBI. ‘’I vow that there will be accountability inside the FBI and outside of it,’’ he asserted, emphasizing his commitment to restore public trust in the agency.

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Trump’s support for Kash’s appointment

US President Donald Trump has backed the appointment of Patel, calling him a ‘’tough, strong’’ leader who commands respect among FBI agents.

Trump stressed that Patel’s confirmation process was more uncomplicated than expected, because of his credibility and endorsement from important figures.

‘’One of the reasons I love Kash and wanted to put him in is because of the respect agents had for him, ‘’Trump remarked. ‘’He will go down as the best ever at that position, ’’ as ANI reported.

Patel faced opposition from Senate Democrats and Republican senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins. However, he managed to secure confirmation with a 51-49 vote. His nomination received strong support from Senate Minority leader Mitch McConnell who has earlier opposed Trump’s other nominees.

After receiving confirmation, Patel extended his gratitude to Trump and Bondi for trusting him. 

(With inputs from ANI)