S.Y. Quraishi Friday took over as India's new chief election commissioner (CEC), becoming the first Muslim in the country to occupy the post.

He takes over from Navin Chawla, who held the post for one-and-a-half years.

Quraishi had said Thursday that he was taking over the post with 'great pride and humility'. 'I request the cooperation of all stakeholders, especially the people of this great country to fulfil my responsibilities.'