NDA says decision on Prez poll will be a collective one

Setting the tone for it, Punjab Chief Minister and Shiromani Akali Dal patron Parkash Singh Badal said in Chandigarh that as a constituent of NDA, his party will back the decision taken by the alliance on issue of Presidential election.

"We are a part of NDA and whatever decision they take, we will go with them. ...As a key ally of NDA, SAD is committed to support the line of action NDA takes...I have made my stand clear, which is we will follow whatever NDA thinks is best," he said in reply to a volley of question on the issue.

In Patna, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, a senior leader of key NDA ally JD-U, said also spoke in a similar vein, disfavouring any one ally's "one upamanship" of announcing its view separately when discussions are going on under the joint forum of NDA.

"We are in favour of a consensus (on the President poll) but how will there be a consenus on the issue unless NDA itself comes up with a consensus," Kumar said.

"JD-U is also an ally of NDA.... Is JD-U's stand any different," he replied with a smile when repeatedly asked about his party's stand on putting up a candidate against Mukherjee in case NDA decides for a contest.

Shiv Sena, which has not yet opened its cards on the issue, is in active consulation with other NDA allies to firm up a position on the issue. Party sources said its leader Sanjay Raut has held discussion with NDA convenor Sharad Yadav in this regard. (More)