Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jul 17: In a heartfelt farewell note marking the end of his tenure as Governor of Goa, P S Sreedharan Pillai has revealed his desire to return to his first love—the legal profession.

Speaking to reporters ahead of his departure, Pillai, who has now been succeeded by Ashok Gajapati Raju, said, “It is in my mind to resume legal practice once I return to Kerala. That is why I have not withdrawn my enrolment. It is only suspended.”

The 70-year-old leader, a seasoned advocate and former Kerala BJP president, had earlier served as Governor of Mizoram in 2019 before taking charge of Goa in 2021.

When asked if reappearing in court after holding a gubernatorial post might appear unusual, Pillai replied firmly, “That is ego—thinking one should not go to court after being a Governor.” He underlined that respect for the judiciary is paramount and added, “There’s nothing wrong in calling a judge ‘Your Honour’. The court is a temple of justice.”

Dismissing any notion of protocol-related hurdles, Pillai clarified that no law bars a former Governor from practising law. “I prefer to wear my black coat and gown again,” he said with pride.

Reflecting on his four-year stint in Goa, Pillai shared a personal regret—he never got to visit the state’s famed beaches. “If I go, it would be with a fleet of vehicles and full protocol, which would trouble other visitors,” he said, adding that he always tried to keep official protocol to a minimum during his term.

Sharing insights into his governance style, Pillai revealed that when approached by opposition leaders with concerns, he would simply invite the Chief Minister for tea the next day and sort matters amicably. “Dealing with tough issues with a smile was my slogan,” he remarked.

As Pillai bids farewell to Goa, his decision to return to the courtroom marks a rare transition in Indian public life—from Raj Bhavan to the court bench, a journey led by humility and legal passion.