TNI Bureau: According to latest reports and trends, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is all set to become the next President of India unless some weird developments take place in a day or two.
After being snubbed by Mamata Banerjee, Congress went on offensive and set the UPA house in order. The party reportedly convinced Mulayam Singh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party and Mayawati’s BSP to support Pranab Mukherjee. The DMK, NCP, National Conference, RLD, RJD and many other parties will also back Pranab as the President.
Despite Mamata Banerjee’s heavy push, former President APJ Abdul Kalam may not get enough support to win the race to Raisina Hills. It is speculated that he won’t enter the fray unless he is assured of at least 55% of total votes.
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The BJP-led NDA has adopted a wait and watch policy. But they know that things would be difficult for them without the support of Samajwadi Party. The Left parties may also back Pranab to embarrass Mamata and rake up ‘Bangali Asmita’ issue.
The NDA may agree for a compromise formula, which will make sure that their candidate gets the Vice-President’s post, while the Congress walks away with the President’s post.
Pranab Mukherjee may resign as the Minister on June 24. He could file the nominations for President’s post on June 25. Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal is all set to manage his election campaign. A final decision on Pranab Mukherjee’s candidature will be taken by this evening or tomorrow morning.