As President, Mohan Bhagwat can make India a 'Hindu Rashtra': Shiv Sena

Senior Shiv Sena leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Monday asserted that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagat's name should be considered as the next President of India.

"It is the highest post in the country. Somebody with a clean image should occupy it. We have heard Mohan Bhagwat's name is being discussed for President. If India has to be made a 'Hindu Rashtra', Bhagwat will be a good choice for President. But the decision (to support his candidature) will be taken by Uddhav ji," Raut said.

When asked if he will attend the dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raut said that the Shiv Sena has not received any invitation so far.

"We have not received any invitation from the Prime Minister or the BJP. If and when it comes, we will decide our next course of action but lavish food is also cooked at Uddhav Thackeray's residence in Mumbai as well," said Raut.

The Presidential elections will be held in July when President Pranab Mukherjee will complete his term.

According to reports, names of Sushma Swaraj, Sumitra Mahajan and LK Advani are also being considered by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).