Jethmalani says he will contest Prez poll if BJP backs Pranab

Jethmalani, who is away in Detroit on a holiday, told reporters over phone that NDA should not go for a consensus on Mukherjee.

"Mukherjee is a friend. I have great appreciation for some of his qualities but have a serious grievance against him that he has concealed the names that Germans and French have given him for those people who are hoarding the nation's wealth outside. Yet he has not done anything," Jethmalani said.

He insisted that for him Rashtrapati Bhawan is not an atttraction and he would like to continue with his legal practice.

"My job is to educate people. Let us see what is the decision of the party," Jethmalani said.

BJP sources said Jethmalani's name was not discussed at today's meeting. The party has indicated it is keen on a contest and hence Jethmalani's threat may not have much signifance.

NDA is holding a meeting tomorrow where a final view on the issue is expected to be taken.