TNI Bureau: It’s official now. Despite hard efforts from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), former President APJ Abdul Kalam opted out of the Presidential race, as he did not want to contest a losing battle.
Kalam said he never aspired for a second term, but some political parties, including Trinamool Congress and many common people wanted him as the next President, which reflected their love and affection for him. However, the present political scenario did not allow him to be part of the battle.
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Earlier in the day, BJP leader Sudheendra Kulkarni met Kalam twice at his residence to persuade him to contest. Also, veteran BJP leader LK Advani called him twice. However, Kalam showed his reluctance to contest unless he was assured of 55-60% of total votes.
“I have considered the totality of the matter and the present political situation, and decided not to contest the Presidential Elections 2012,” he said in a written statement.
The BJP will now have the option of either backing PA Sangma or backing out of the Presidential race. Its allies JD(U), Akali Dal and Shiv Sena are not in favour of supporting PA Sangma for the post of President.