Seshan Declares Candidature For Presidents Post

Former chief election commissioner TN Seshan yesterday declared his candidature for the post of the President of India and sought support from all major political parties. President Sahnkar Dayal Sharmas five-year term will be complete in July.

Seshans announcement is not a surprise as he had earlier declared his intention to become the countrys President or Prime Minister. His tenure of six years as the CEC was more high profile and controversial than that of any of his predecessors.

Seshan visited Congress president Sitaram Kesri yesterday to seek support.

It was an almost obsequious Seshan that greeted relatively junior politicians who were waiting to see Kesri.

He repeatedly addressed MPs and ex-MPs as sir, surprising all of them and evoking a smirk from more than one.

In the afternoon, he stood behind the table like a waiter to distribute sweets and other food to reporters after the press conference at which he announced his candidature for the office of President of India.

Seshan said that he could have approached one or more national or regional parties to endorse his candidature.

He did not do so as he wanted to hold his head high and body erect without leaning in any direction, he said. Seshan said the President can play an outstanding role to guide the country despite his circumscribed role.

He promised to adhere to the letter and spirit of the Constitution if he was elected to the top post. ..I promise to use the powers only and absolutely strictly for the good of the country without ever making it partisan in thought, word or deed, he declared.

He said: My credentials are those of absolute integrity, undiluted patriotism and strict adherence to the Constitution. Within these walls I seek to ensure tolerance among the majorities and minorities of religion, caste, language etc.