PM calls Swaraj, seeks support for Pranab's candidature

Sources close to Swaraj said Singh informed her that UPA has decided to field Mukherjee as its candidate for the President's post and sought BJP and NDA support for him.

"Swaraj said she will definitely convey Singh's message to NDA in its next meeting. She also told him that she will convey to him whatever decision is taken by NDA," a party leader said.

UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi announced Mukherjee's candidature today at a meeting of the ruling coalition. All UPA allies, except TMC, extended their support to 77-year-old Mukherjee.

BJP-led NDA has not yet taken a call on the issue. However, there are indications that NDA would like to put up a candidate for the Presidential election as it does not want to be seen siding with UPA in view of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for 2014.

The government has not made any offer of a deal with the Opposition for a quid pro quo on Vice Presidential poll.

The NDA has said it will announce its candidate after UPA declares its choice.