Presidential Elections 2017 highlights: Meira Kumar picked for credentials, not Dalit status, says Opposition

Meira Kumar files nomination even as numbers stack up against her

Even as Meira Kumar’s candidature was approved by 17 opposition political parties, the numbers are clearly in favour of Ram Nath Kovind. 

A total of 4,120 MLAs and 776 MPs would cast their votes in the presidential election on 17 July. Kovind fielded by the NDA is expected to garner almost 60 percent of votes with the help of support extended by several non-NDA parties such as JD(U), BJD, and both factions of AIADMK.

JD(U) asserts Presidential polls one off incident, Opposition unity stands strong

Our alliance in Bihar is strong, different views over #PresidentialPoll has nothing to do with the alliance or Govt: KC Tyagi,JDU pic.twitter.com/429bmXaqkn

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2017

Meanwhile… Oppn denies cracks over presidential poll candidate

Presidential poll candidate has become a bone of contention between JD(U) and the rest of the opposition parties. While JD(U) declared its support for NDA’s Ram Nath Kovind for being Bihar’s former governor, Congress fielded Meira Kumar, another Dalit and daughter of prominent leader from the state Jagjivan Ram.

However, Nitish’s decision to stand by Kovind has started rumours that the Opposition unity may not be as strong as the Congress would like to portray.

She represents the values that binds us as a nation: Rahul Gandhi on Meira Kumar

Congress' Rahul Gandhi @OfficeOfRG says proud of Opposition Presidential candidate Meira Kumar @meira_kumar #MeiraKumar4President pic.twitter.com/1U2HNgj7FM

— Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) June 28, 2017

Meira Kumar to pick up ‘ideological fight’ from 30 June in Gujarat

Meira Kumar is likely to launch her campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad in Gujarat after her nomination papers are cleared on Thursday. 

“I feel I should start my election campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. I will start from there,” said Kumar briefing media in New Delhi, a day ahead of filing her nomination papers.

Asked why Sabarmati, Kumar said, “Everybody knows the significance of Sabarmati in our country. The ‘sant’ of Sabarmati (Mahatma Gandhi) played an important role in the freedom movement of our country. That’s why I am going there.”

Who is Meira Kumar, Oppn presidential nominee

Meira Kumar entered electoral politics in 1985 when she joined Congress and is a five-time Lok Sabha MP. Kumar, the daughter of prominent Dalit leader Jagjivan Ram, has beaten powerful Dalit leaders like Ram Vilas Paswan and Mayawati to win in Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh. She is also the first woman to become the Lok Sabha Speaker. Read more about her family background and political career here.

Ram Nath Kovind finishes nomination procedures on last day of filing papers

BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu filed fourth set of nomination papers on behalf of Kovind to conclude the nomination formalities for the NDA’s presidential pick. The Presidential elections, slated for 17 July, will see a race between Opposition’s Meira Kumar and Kovind, who has a decided advantage given to the strength of the ruling party in the House. 

Union minister Venkaiah Naidu files fourth set of nomination papers on behalf of NDA presidential candidate #RamNathKovind.

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2017

Opposition leaders, sans JDU, attend Meira Kumar’s nomination

In yet another bid to underscore Opposition’s unity, leaders from various political parties flanked Kumar as she reached Parliament House to file her nomination papers. From Congress President Sonia Gandhi, to All India Trinamool Congress’ Derek O’ Brian, prominent leaders from several opposition parties made appearances alongside Kumar. 
 

However, JD(U)’s presence was noticeably missing from the scene, which had pledged support to NDA’s candidate Ram Nath Kovind, even before Kumar’s candidature was announced.

Opposition Presidential candidate #MeiraKumar files her nomination pic.twitter.com/9XBCX138eU

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2017

Meira Kumar files nomination

Flanked by major Opposition leaders, including CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh and TMC’s DereK O’ Brian among others. 

Against the ideology of divisiveness she represents the values that bind us as a nation&a ppl.Proud to have @meira_kumar ji as our candidate https://t.co/R7M5udN44y

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 28, 2017

Meira Kumar arrives in Parliament to file her nomination

Opposition Presidential candidate #MeiraKumar arrives in Parliament to file her nomination pic.twitter.com/F1HmBQXuUS

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2017

Meira Kumar responds to Sushma Swaraj’s allegations against her 

Responding to Union minister Sushma Swaraj’s releasing a video of a Lok Sabha speech to indicate how she was treated as leader of opposition, Kumar said leaders of various parties had never criticised her for her style of functioning but appreciated it.

“None had alleged that my style of functioning was biased.”

Meira Kumar pays homage at Rajghat before filing her nomination

Delhi: Opposition Presidential candidate #MeiraKumar pays tribute at Rajghat before filing her nomination pic.twitter.com/qGGIYqC9lZ

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2017

Controversies from the past come back to haunt Oppn presidential candidate 

Controversies from her past has come back to haunt Meira Kumar, who will file her nomination papers today. Kumar has been embroiled in a controversy over a government bungalow allotted to her. It is alleged that using her influence as the Lok Sabha speaker, she apparently got it converted into a memorial for her father. 

Kumar, however, brushed aside these allegations, adding that due process was followed in the move.

“These charges are baseless and are being levelled with the intent of tarnishing my image. The government has given the bungalow to a government body and later a government office.”

Tomorrow morning at 10 AM, I will pay homage at Rajghat and Samta Sthal, the samadhis of Mahatma Gandhi and my father, Babu Jagjivan Ram.

— Meira Kumar (@meira_kumar) June 27, 2017

Meira Kumar to pay homage at Rajghat, Samta Sthal 

Opposition’s presidential nominee and former Lok Sabha speaker Kumar said that she will pay her respects at the Samadhis of Mahatma Gandhi and Jagjivan Ram, her father before she files her nomination papers at 11.30 am.

Meira Kumar to file nomination at 11.30 am

Meira Kumar will file a set of four nomination papers which will be proposed and seconded by leaders of a number of opposition parties. She will file her papers at 11:30 AM in Parliament before the Lok Sabha Secretary General, the returning officer for the 17 July presidential election.

PTI

Haven’t yet made up my mind over appealing to JD(U) for support: Meira Kumar

As Nitish Kumar, a Congress ally in Bihar, declared his support for the NDA candidate, Meira Kumar said that she had not yet decided on whether to appeal to Bihar Chief Minister to support her nomination.

However, she had already reached out to each member of the electorate through her letter two days ago in which she made an emotional appeal to their “voice of inner conscience”.

In a political comeback, Congress had named Meira the presidential nominee after BJP named Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential pick. While Kovind was the governor of Biihar, Meira hails from the state and is the daughter of a prominent politican Jagjivan Ram. Both Kovind and Meira are Dalits.

Recent attacks on Dalits, minorities shameful: Meira Kumar

Meira Kumar described recent attacks on Dalits as “shameful”, even as she said that it was unfortunate that the elections to a constitutional post are being reduced to the discussion around the candidates’ caste. 

“We should hang our heads in shame, even if there is one incident of violence against Dalits.” “Even today in our country, atrocities are being
committed on Dalits, the oppressed and weaker sections… my fight is against that,” Kumar added.

Congress slams Sushma Swaraj for attacking its presidential nominee

Congress party criticised External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for targeting the Opposition’s presidential nominee Meira Kumar. The Opposition leaders said that Kumar is a credible person, and that is a well known fact. Congress leader Tom Vadakkan said that Swaraj, while holding a responsible office, should refrain from making such comments,  Deccan Chronicle  reported.

The External Affairs Minister on Sunday posted a video of former Kumar, who was the former Lok Sabha speaker, on Twitter which she , “This is how Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar treated the Leader of Opposition.” Vadakkan’s reponse came in light of the aforementioned tweet.

Meira Kumar will file nomination today

The opposition’s presidential candidate Meira Kumar will file her nomination papers on Wednesday, the last date of filing nominations. Apart from prominent Congerss leaders, leaders of 16 other parties supporting her, including NCP’s Sharad Pawar, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, CPI-M’s Sitaram Yechury and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad are also expected to be present during the filing of nomination.

Matter of great shame that there is violence against Dalits: Meira Kumar

“It is a matter of great shame for us. We should hang our heads in shame if there is even one incident of violence against Dalits or the weaker sections of the society,” Meira Kumar said. “This is my fight.”

Such things happen in politics, I will decide what to do at the right time: Meira Kumar on JDU supporting #RamNathKovind pic.twitter.com/sr8DpZygTw

— ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2017

Meira Kumar to start her campaign from Sabarmati Ashram

I will go to Sabarmati Ashram,will start my campaign from there: Meira Kumar pic.twitter.com/MEKNFrzvEZ

— ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2017

‘Dalit vs Dalit’ tag shows us how society thinks: Meira Kumar

“I will go to Sabarmati ashram first to campaign for the election,” Meira Kumar said. “Through this fight, the truth in the society is coming out. This ‘Dalit vs Dalit’ tag shows us how the society thinks.”

“Caste should locked up in a piece of cloth and be buried deep underground,” she said.

Meira Kumar again asks people to listen to their ‘inner voice’

“In the coming election, this ideology will be the plank on which I contest. Two days ago, I wrote letters to all the honourable members of the Collegium, requesting them to extend their support to me,” Kumar said.

“History is being scripted and this is the time when one should listen to one’s inner voice,” said the former Lok Sabha Speaker.

Unity of the opposition parties is based on a common ideology: Meira Kumar pic.twitter.com/JLYrTorwQG

— ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2017

Unity of Opposition parties based on common ideals: Meira Kumar

“You all are aware of the political events in current times,” Meira Kumar said.

“I am thankful to all the 17 parties who supported my nomination,” Kumar said. “The unity of Opposition parties is based on common ideology. They are based on social justice, democratic ideals, freedom of press, end to poverty and casteism.”

“These principles are very close to my heart,” she said.

The importance of Presidential election 2017 for Bihar politics

Time has come full circle in Bihar. The kind of political upheaval that the state is experiencing because of the presidential election is reminiscent of what had happened four years ago.

On 16 June, 2013, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar broke his party’s 17-year-old alliance with the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), protesting against the elevation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who was then appointed as the chiarman of BJP’s election campaign committee for the 2014 Lok Sabha election. Friction between the BJP and Janata Dal (United) started surfacing as soon as demands of moving Modi from Gujarat and giving him a bigger responsibility in the general election started gaining momentum.

Read the full analysis here .

Kovind set for a comfortable victory

Set for a comfortable victory, NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind may bag over 62 percent votes but fall short of the 69 percent votes polled by incumbent Pranab Mukherjee in 2012.

With the battle lines drawn in the first-ever Dalit versus Dalit presidential contest, the odds are heavily stacked in favour of the saffron brigade candidate Kovind who is set to get around 7 lakh votes which is around two-thirds of the total 10,98,903 votes of the electoral college.

The joint opposition candidate Meira Kumar is likely to bag around 4 lakh votes despite the support of many regional parties like the RJD, traditional rivals the SP and the BSP and the TMC and the CPM.

Read the full PTI report here .

Sushma Swaraj had shared a video from 2013 to express her disapproval of Meira Kumar

Sushma Swaraj took to Twitter on Sunday to express her disapproval of former Lok Sabha speaker Meira Kumar.

Swaraj shared a video from 2013 on the social media site showcasing Meira’s behaviour towards Swaraj inside the Parliament.

Swaraj was the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Meira was the Lok Sabha speaker. In the video, Swaraj discusses the corruption in the government, which back then was the UPA-II government.

Read the full article here .

(Updates begin for 27 June)

Meira Kumar to address media at around 12.30 pm

Kovind says he does not belong to any party

“Ever since I became governor, I don’t belong to any political party. The post of president is above party politics. I am thankful to everybody for their support,” Kovind told reporters.

“I will do my best to maintain dignity of the high office of the president,” he said.

Referring to national security, Kovind said, “The president is also the supreme commander of all three forces. It is our responsibility to keep our border secure.”

Kovind deserves to be the next president: Chandrababu Naidu

#Kovind deserves to become the next President of India, now everyone has to support his candidature. Opposition will lose: Andhra Pradesh CM pic.twitter.com/WtsiVRSSVg

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Kovind has to file another set of nomination papers

According to India Today , Kovind filed three sets of nominations and will file another set on the last day of filing nomination.

Every set is signed by 60 leaders as proposers and 60 as seconders. This means that 480 MPs/MLAs have signed the nomination papers of Kovind.

The post of president should be above party politics: Ram Nath Kovind

Rashtrapati ka padd dalgat rajneeti se upar hona chahiye: Ram Nath Kovind after filing nomination papers for his presidential candidature pic.twitter.com/rRqj3NQtXm

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Happy that I was selected as Oppn’s candidate: Meira Kumar

I am happy that I was unanimously selected as Opposition's Presidential nominee by 17 political parties: Meira Kumar #PresidentialPolls pic.twitter.com/euOjuXENuG

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Thankful to all who supported me: Kovind

“I am thankful to all those who have supported me. I will try to maintain the dignity of the post,” ANI quoted Kovind as saying.

#WATCH:Visuals of NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi,Venkaiah Naidu,LK Advani,Amit Shah,Murli Manohar Joshi at Parliament pic.twitter.com/W7gMuNnTq3

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

LIVE: #RamNathKovind files his nomination in presence of all senior NDA leaders https://t.co/JYmHbWQhyw pic.twitter.com/2F2yAcqomz

— DD News (@DDNewslive) June 23, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind files his nomination for President in the presence of Narendra Modi: NDTV

#Delhi: NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind will file his nomination papers shortly; visuals from the Parliament. pic.twitter.com/x8O09Y5IJO

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Presidential Election 2017 shows parties need caste to survive

Before going into the merits or not of the candidates, the elephant in every Indian room, that is caste, must be addressed. Every election in India is dependent on the math around caste and this time around, the Congress has made that math irrelevant by matching BJP every step of the way, and trying to upstage them as well.

What has been most frustrating about this impending contest for the post of the Constitutional head of India no less, has been the politics of optics and perception.

Our caste bias more obvious than ever when we sit down to write or talk about politicians, especially about the leaders who come from oppressed communities.

Read the full article here .

Narendra Modi reaches Parliament

#Delhi PM Modi reaches Parliament; NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind will file his nomination papers in presence of PM shortly. pic.twitter.com/M7pBK6nj22

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Kovind to get Z+ security cover

Ram Nath Kovind has also been accorded Z+ security, and commandos of the NSG and security agencies have also done security audit of Kovind’s temporary residence in the capital. “A Z+ and NSG security cover has been given to Ram Nath Kovind,” a home ministry spokesperson confirmed.

It is expected that the security cover will be with him in the upcoming days and weeks, as he travels the length and breadth of the country to canvass for support.

Kovind could become second Dalit president of India

If elected, Ram Nath Kovind could become the second Dalit president of the country, only after KR Narayanan, who was in the Rashtrapati Bhavan from 1997 to 2002.

Numbers firmly in Kovind’s favour

The electoral college comprising all elected MPs and MLAs of India would appear to be firmly behind Ram Nath Kovind. NDA, its constituents and allies make up 48.6 percent of the electoral college. This apart, regional parties like AIADMK, BJD, TRS and JD(U) have also decided to back Kovind’s candidature as the next president of India, giving him over 60 percent of the electoral college, and that figure could increase further, given that some regional parties are still undecided.

Nitish supporting Kovind may set off political realignment in Bihar

Nitish Kumar created a flutter by sticking to his decision to back Ram Nath Kovind, the NDA nominee in the presidential race, even after Meira Kumar, a Congress leader hailing from Bihar, was named as the 17-party Opposition’s choice for the top constitutional position in the country.

Many have described Nitish’s decision as a smart political move; at a time when his electoral partners — Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family members — are getting increasingly embroiled in corruption charges, Nitish has apparently found ways to rebuild bridges with BJP and Narendra Modi for a possible association in the future, if necessary.

This is, of course, not a one-off instance when Nitish Kumar broke ranks with his alliance partners, RJD and Congress. He wholeheartedly supported the NDA government’s claims about surgical strikes against Pakistan, at a time when Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Yadav were picking holes in this claim.

More importantly, when the entire Opposition was up in arms against Narendra Modi’s demonetisation plank, Nitish showed his solitary streak by being the only Opposition leader to defend the move.

Read the full article here .

Nitish Kumar ji ne pata nahi kyu ye nirnaye liya, hum appeal karenge, batayenge aur samjhayenge ki galti ho gayi aapse:Lalu Yadav #Prespolls pic.twitter.com/ojM5Bgyn3g

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2017

Lalu says he will ask Nitish to reconsider his decision

According to ANI, JD(U) ally RJD chief Lalu Prasad said that he will ask Nitish Kumar to reconsider his decision to support Ram Nath Kovind because “Meira Kumar will win”.

Meira Kumar to file her nomination on 27 June

Former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, who is the candidate of major opposition parties in the 17 July presidential election, will file her nomination on 27 June, Congress sources told PTI.

Reaf the full report here .

Modi to accompany Kovind to Lok Sabha

​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on Friday morning that he will accompany NDA’s presidnetial nominee Ram Nath Kovind as he files his nomination papers. According to News18, Kovind will assemble in the Parliament library at 11 am with chief ministers, members of parliament, and members of Legislative Assembly.

Kovind will file his nomination papers at 11.45 am. 

Will accompany Shri Ram Nath Kovind Ji as he files his nomination papers today for the upcoming Presidential election.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 23, 2017

They (opposition) disappointed nation. Result is known, still they have decided to contest election, it's their choice: V Naidu #MeiraKumar pic.twitter.com/jbma38mumd

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

The Dalit-vs-Dalit battle

Several Opposition members have expressed that there couldn’t have been a better candidate than Meira Kumar. But with the required numbers in the favour of the NDA’s pick Ram Nath Kovind, will Kumar’s candidature be able to change the game?

Who is Meira Kumar?

Meira Kumar was elected to Lok Sabha for the first time from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh in 1985, defeating top Dalit leaders Mayawati and Ram Vilas Paswan.

She became an MP for the second time in 1996 and again in 1998 from Delhi’s Karol Bagh constituency but lost her seat in 1999 when NDA returned to power. Kumar was re-elected in 2004 with a huge margin from Sasaram in Bihar, the constituency of her father, and became an MP for the fifth time in 2009.

Who is Meira Kumar?

From being a foreign service officer to a five-term MP and then a Cabinet minister, Kumar has traversed a long way and a varied course that came in handy to her in running the Lok Sabha that often throws itself into scenes of tumult.

She holds an MA and LLB degrees alongwith an advanced diploma in Spanish.

NC backs Meira Kumar

National Conference, the Jammu and Kashmir’s main Opposition party, has decided to support Meira Kumar.

NC’s provincial president, Nasir Aslam Wani, said, “Our working president, Omar Abdullah, was also part of the discussions on the presidential election. Our preference will remain for the joint Opposition candidate.’’

Who is Meira Kumar?

The career of Kumar began when she quit her Indian Foreign Service(IFS) job and decided to fight the Lok Sabha polls in 1985, a year before her father’s death.

This unity represents coming together of forces wch hv strong ideological base.Going to contest election as their representative-Meira Kumar pic.twitter.com/ofemvNg6sO

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Express gratitude to 17 opposition parties who selected me as #PresidentialElection candidate. Delighted by opposition's unity: Meira Kumar pic.twitter.com/IdTDUthBgI

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Who is Meira Kumar?

Daughter of former deputy prime minister late Jagjivan Ram, Meira Kumar, 72, was the first woman to occupy the high office of the Lok Sabha Speaker between 2009 and 2014 during the UPA-II rule.

PDP oppose Ram Nath Kovind’s candidature

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) will hold a meeting of its 28 MLAs and two Rajya Sabha MPs to decide which candidate to vote for during the presidential election on 17 July, after some of its members expressed opposition to NDA candidate Ram Nath Kovind, due to his RSS background.

Now, our party announces support to #MeiraKumar for the post of President: BSP Chief Mayawati #PresidentialElection pic.twitter.com/4JJ3krmh60

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Decided to support #RamNathKovind after taking everything into consideration.Political decisions arent changed in mins&seconds: KC Tyagi,JDU pic.twitter.com/lZPcKpwkZm

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

UPA nominee for President’s post Meira Kumar more capable and popular than NDA candidate: BSP supremo Mayawati.

Mayawati announces BSP support to Meira Kumar

“I had initially said Kovind was connected to RSS and BJP ideologies. I had also said that a non-Dalit would’ve been a better NDA candidate. After the BJP and NDA’s one-sided decision, the opposition parties called for a meeting, Today, UPA and others have unaniomously chose Meira Kumar who comes from a Dalit background, " Mayawati tells at a press conference

#PresidentialPolls -- BSP chief Mayawati formally announces BSP's support for #MeiraKumar pic.twitter.com/cELufEJuLW

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 22, 2017

“You cannot look at her (Meira Kumar’s) caste. Her credentials are known to the world,” DMK leader Kanimozhi tells Times Now

#PresidentialPolls -- No matter BJP has the majority, but #MeiraKumar is also a strong candidate; we will support her: Ram Gopal Yadav, SP

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 22, 2017

None better than Meira Kumar

Talking to reporters, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, said: “There could not have been a better candidate than Meira Kumar for the post of President."

BSP changes stand; Lalu Prasad Yadav says will appeal to Nitish on Meira Kumar

Will meet him (Nitish Kumar) tomorrow. Ask him to think, should not do a historical mistake, your decision is wrong: Lalu Yadav. #MeiraKumar pic.twitter.com/cJ1iMOerg2

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

“The circumstances in which Meira Kumar was chosen were only possible because of BJP. We are confident in the majority that is with Kovind. Decisions taken in haste can save the Opposition but won’t get them majority,” Sudhashu Trivedi tells India Today.

BSP Chief Mayawati gave her consent for the name which came in the opposition meet: Satish Mishra, BSP #PresidentialElection #MeiraKumar pic.twitter.com/Dp3l4mKRYL

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Nitish has done a historical mistake, People of Bihar will never forget him: RJD 

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has attacked Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after 17 opposition parties led by Congress announced to pitch Meira Kumar against NDA nominee Ramnath Kovind.

After attending the meeting in Delhi, RJD leader Lalu Prasad said that Nitish had done a historical mistake.

“Nitish had called me and told about his decision. I advised him not to do so but I can’t say what happened after that. Now everybody knows what He has done. He himself had pitched for opposition unity and backtracked,” Lalu said.

Latest salvo from the RJD is set to widen the cracks within the ruling Mahagathbandhan. Other alliance partner Congress has also denounced Nitish’ party JD(U) for going with the BJP.

Back in Patna, RJD MLA Bhai Virendra challenged Nitish Kumar to change his decision to support Kovind having RSS background.

“People of Bihar will never forget Nitish Kumar. Now a daughter of Bihar from Dalit background has been named Presidential candidate. Nitish should have waited and thought about it. He has done a big mistake and will pay price for that,” he said.

Not only Bhai Virendra but other RJD leaders have openly ciriticised Nitish Kumar since yesterday when the Bihar CM announced to support Kovind. 

JD(U) did not participate in today’s opposition meeting held in Delhi but RJD leader Lalu Yadav was present there. Lalu had made it clear that He would go with what the Congress led opposition will decide.

Senior RJD leader Raghuvansh Prasad Singh alleged that Nitish had taken the decision to demean the RJD. He also feared the ruling Mahagathbandhan might not last long in Bihar.

– Alok Kumar, reporting from Patna

#BREAKING -- BSP to support #MeiraKumar, withdraws support to #RamNathKovind #PresidentialPolls pic.twitter.com/ngIMHXgkSz

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 22, 2017

Nitishji called me, said that it is his personal decision. I would appeal to him to rethink. Won't break alliance: Lalu P Yadav #MeiraKumar pic.twitter.com/ifM5KseARq

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

We appeal to all other opposition parties to support us: Congress President Sonia Gandhi #PresidentialElection pic.twitter.com/whPWlD17HW

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Will meet Nitish Kumar and will continue to urge him to change his decision to support NDA prez candidate Kovind: Lalu Prasad

#MeiraKumar likely to file nomination on 27th or 28th June

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 22, 2017

All 17 political parties have unanimously proposed name of #MeiraKumar ji for forthcoming #PresidentialElection: GN Azad in opposition meet pic.twitter.com/IRsXfSvIqB

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

“As a woman I would want to compliment Meira ji but they dont have the numbers. The majority is for Ram Nath Kovind with all the correct prerequisites.” Shaina NC tells Times Now

Congress president Sonia Gandhi announced former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar's name for #PresidentialElection. pic.twitter.com/39PL0S1VqE

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

“It’s a wonderful choice and I wish her all the luck.. I don’t think there could’ve been a better choice than her. Meira Kumar’s name has been doing rounds for long time. She is a well known and highly respected figure,” senior Congress leader Sheila Dixit tells Times Now

Who is Meira Kumar?

Kumar entered electoral politics in 1985, when she joined Congress. Read more about the Opposition presidential candidate here

BJP confident of getting majority

“BJP has not decided (Kovind as candidate) only on symbolism. Now there is no contest. It is a one-sided match and NDA will win with a huge majority,” says BJP leader Sushil Modi on Times Now

BJP claims Opposition using Meira Kumar for her Dalit status

“They (Congress) are only putting up a symbolic fight. If they only wanted to make her, they could’ve done during the two occasions when Congress was in power. BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao tells Times Now.

“I think its a masterstroke by the Opposition. Now there’s only one point: who is in favour of an RSS candidate and who favours one from a non-RSS background,” CPM leader Fuad Halim tells Times Now

JD(U) to continue to back Ram Nath Kovind

“In this case, the JD(U) has decided to support Kovind on his own creditials,” JD (U) leader Pavan Varma tells Times Now

Opposition parties meeting on #PresidentialElection underway in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/aAOwxZZnwE

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

No chance of JD(U) going back to NDA

​A day after backing Ram Nath Kovind’s candidature for the president’s post, the JD(U) said that there was no question of going back to the NDA and it continued to be an integral part of the united opposition.

“The decision to back Kovind’s candidature is an isolated incident, we’ll never go back to the NDA-fold again,” the JD(U) national spokesperson KC Tyagi.

No chance of JD(U) going back to NDA

​A day after backing Ram Nath Kovind’s candidature for the president’s post, the JD(U) said that there was no question of going back to the NDA and it continued to be an integral part of the united opposition.

“The decision to back Kovind’s candidature is an isolated incident, we’ll never go back to the NDA-fold again,” the JD(U) national spokesperson KC Tyagi.

Presidential polls: RJD to question JD(U) over extending support to Centre

Read @ANI_news story | https://t.co/YfP8yTabCn pic.twitter.com/AXQrlv2NFs

— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) June 22, 2017

Our first choice for Pres candidate is Gopal Krishna Gandhi otherwise Prakash Ambedkar.We'll discuss in oppn party meeting: S Yechury to ANI

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2017

Met Shri Ram Nath Kovind. pic.twitter.com/fM9fg5mAnA

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

#WATCH : Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind meets PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/dAhXJG9R20

— ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind meets Narendra Modi and Amit Shah

Delhi: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind met PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. pic.twitter.com/JIwNvoBIyS

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

BJD announces support for Ram Nath Kovind 

Biju Janata Dal President and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced his party’s support to NDA candidate in the presidential elections, reports PTI. 

UPDATE: #BJD chief & Odisha CM @Naveen_Odisha announces his party's support to #NDA candidate #RamNathKovind in the presidential elections.

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind arrives to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind arrives to meet PM Modi pic.twitter.com/ehLjvbJUv1

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind’s selection as NDA candidate is to deepen the Hindutva agenda

If there is an impression that Kovind is selected only to bring Dalits under the BJP fold, it would be far from reality. In fact, Kovind’s selection as the NDA’s presidential candidate is driven by an objective of deepening the Hindutva into those social segments which were inaccessible to the ideologues of Sangh Parivar. Kovind’s selection is certainly a part of a larger political project of consolidating the Hindu identity.  Full analysis here .

Ram Nath Kovind hopes all parties will support his candidature

The NDA’s presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the 17 July election. “I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings,” Kovind told the media on his arrival in New Delhi from Patna. Asked if the Opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: “I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India.” Read more here . 

Graphic courtesy: PTI

Won’t support BJP’s Presidential candidate if it is for votebank**: Uddhav Thackeray** 
“If someone is trying to make a Dalit a President with the purpose of gaining a vote bank then we are not with them,” Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said about Ram Nath Kovind, NDA’s pick for the 2017 Presidential elections. He then went to add that, “But if it is for the development of the nation then we may support.”

If someone is trying to make a Dalit a President with the purpose of gaining a vote bank then we are not with them: Uddhav Thackeray pic.twitter.com/rFk8M7o0gy

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind is a down-to-earth man, the Dailt leader’s neighbours say in Kanpur

Neighbours in Maharishi Dayanand Vihar ​colony in Kalyanpur remember Kovind as a simple, soft spoken person who has maintained relations with those who have been with him. Read more here .

This is a news alert. More details to follow. #JustIn #NDTVNews pic.twitter.com/5gg0zpnEX4

— NDTV (@ndtv) June 19, 2017

BJP leaders welcome Ram Nath Kovind on his arrival 

#PresidentialPoll | NDA's Presidential candidate #RamNathKovind lands in Delhi, welcomed by BJP leaders

Watch live https://t.co/hMlRpgrUU6 pic.twitter.com/YJGc3vsBNN

— NDTV (@ndtv) June 19, 2017

We are not appealing to the people to support Ram Nath Kovind because of his dalit background, Venkaiah Naidu tells News18

#EpicentreAt7 –We are not appealing to the people to support Ram Nath Kovind because of his dalit background :Union Minister @MVenkaiahNaidu pic.twitter.com/M8UB1Pg9r0

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Parties expected to file nominations for the presidential election by 23 June 

With three holidays coming ahead of the 28 June deadline for filing of nominations in the presidential election, major political parties, including the ruling NDA, are expected to file the papers of their respective nominees by 23 June.

Ram Nath Kovind arrives in Delhi 

Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind arrives in Delhi, will meet PM Modi pic.twitter.com/lI0B2dqux9

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Puducherry opposition AINRC announces support for Ram Nath Kovind

All India NR Congress (AINRC) in Puducherry extended support to NDA’s presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind. Leader of the opposition and AINRC founder N Rangasamy said in a release that “AINRC extends its full support to Kovind for his win in the presidential election”. Read more here .

Baba Ramdev says consensus Presidential elections needed as ‘dignity of the post matters’

“We hope that this time, both National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) give a consensus on the nomination of next President. The country wishes for the same as the position of a President is the highest of all,” Ramdev told ANI in Ahmedabad.

Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj  should have been nominee: Mamata Banerjee

Expressing her party’s reservation about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee said that, “The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate.” Read more here .

Narendra Modi-Amit Shah masterstroke stumps Opposition

By announcing Kovind’s name as NDA presidential candidate, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah have yet again reminded that they are a master of surprises, expect the unexpected from them. They have proved that all the media speculations and the so called “informed” private talks among the senior leads and ministers to be wrong after Kovind’s name was nowhere on the radar when speculations were rife. Read more here .

Shiv Sena to hold meeting to decide on NDA candidate Ram Nath Kovind

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of party leaders to decide on supporting the NDA’s choice for president, party MP Sanjay Raut said. Read more here .

YSR Congress announces support to NDA presidential candidate Kovind

YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy announced that his party would support Kovind’s candidature for the top post as he was a Dalit leader. According to PTI, Jagan gave this assurance to BJP chief Amit Shah, when the latter called him over the phone this afternoon seeking the party’s support for the ruling coalition’s nominee.

I and my party, wholeheartedly support the candidature of Sri Ram Nath Kovind Ji, Dalit leader and a fine Statesman, as Presidential nominee

— YS Jagan Mohan Reddy (@ysjagan) June 19, 2017

A brief introduction to Ram Nath Kovind 

राष्ट्रीय जनतांत्रिक गठबंधन के राष्ट्रपति पद के उम्मीदवार श्री रामनाथ कोविंद जी का संक्षिप्त परिचय... pic.twitter.com/pfpr5etp3h

— BJP (@BJP4India) June 19, 2017

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj congratulated Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind for his nomination as the NDA candidate for the presidential poll.

Heartiest congratulations to Shri #RamNathKovind ji on his nomination as our candidate for the office of President of India.

— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) June 19, 2017

“After you take the presidential post, you have to become apolitical,” Pratibha Patil

Pratibha Patil spoke to NDTV about the 2017 Presidential elections, Ram Nath Kovind’s nomination and more. She said that, “After you take the presidential post, you have to become apolitical,” adding that the President of India has an allegiance to the constitution. She added that the president must focus on serving the people and must be secular in nature, protecting democratic values through their post. 

#FacebookLive | Watch former President Pratibha Patil speak to NDTV on #PresidentialPoll #RamnathKovind

Tune in: https://t.co/QV4m2vmiIZ pic.twitter.com/GAZuHTelMh

— NDTV (@ndtv) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind waves to people outside Raj Bhawan in Patna as before leaving for Delhi 

#WATCH: NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind waves to people outside Raj Bhawan in Patna as he leaves for Delhi to meet PM Modi pic.twitter.com/HJo3wMcsxB

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Celebrations outside BJP offices, Kovind thanks people of Bihar for their support  

“I thank the people of Bihar for their support,” Kovind said while waving to the crowd on his way to Delhi.

Celebrations outside BJP office in Lucknow after #RamNathKovind was declared NDA presidential candidate pic.twitter.com/DeGOM19IbY

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind reaches Patna airport, on his way to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top officials in Delhi

Bihar Governor and NDA presidential candidate #RamNathKovind leaving for Delhi, will meet PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/559TZek6h8

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Ram Vilas Paswan calls Kovind’s nomination a ‘political masterstroke’ 

Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Ram Vilas Paswan extended full support to the NDA’s presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also asked opposition parties to support the Dalit candidate, claiming that if they put up a candidate against Kovind then they would be seen as “anti-Dalit”. Read more here . 

श्री कोविन्द एक दलित एवं कमजोर वर्ग से आते हैं। प्रधानमंत्री का यह एक बहुत ऐतिहासिक फैसला है।

— Ram Vilas Paswan (@irvpaswan) June 19, 2017

#RamNathKovind has done a lot for society. I'm sure that under his leadership country will continue its path of development: @nitin_gadkari pic.twitter.com/B8wy5aoDRT

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Seems like the tables have turned

FYI: The BJP in 2012 didn't support President Pranab Mukherjee's candidature because he, like #RamnathKovind, had a political background.

— Gaurav Pandhi (@GauravPandhi) June 19, 2017

Venkaiah Naidu hopes parties extend support for Ram Nath Kovind

According to Times Now, Naidu said that he is, “Confident that Shiv Sena will support Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.” adding that BJP has reached out to all political parties to support their candidate.

Informed all political parties including the Opposition parties over our Presidential candidate: Venkaiah Naidu #KovindForPresident pic.twitter.com/S2z1mv7MRr

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) June 19, 2017

Mamata Banerjee noncommittal about NDA’s candidate

“There are other big Dalit leaders in India. He was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP, so they have made him the candidate.” Mamata Banerjee said according to ANI . 

Ex-prez of BJP Dalit Morcha (98-02), #RamNathKovind was lawyer, served as party spokesman, was All India Koli Samaj head too #NDA #PrezPoll pic.twitter.com/w374OKoBIW

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2017

We are also of the opinion that it would have been better if NDA had named some non political Dalit person as President nominee:Mayawati

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

We are not against #RamNathKovind's nomination. It would have been better if the BJP had taken all Opposition into confidence: Mayawati pic.twitter.com/vA6j6KT8f4

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Mayawati expresses support for Kovind’s candidacy while expressing reservations about his ideological background 

As he is a Dalit we are positive on his name, but only if oppn doesn't announce a popular dalit name: Mayawati #RamNathKovind pic.twitter.com/QeRlVEz2FF

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Derek O’Brien’s take on Ram Nath Kovind

Speaking of which, click here to find out how Wikipedia reacted, rather quickly, to Ram Nath Kovind being named as the NDA candidate.  

How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today ? I did. #RamNathKovind

— Derek O'Brien | ডেরেক ও'ব্রায়েন (@derekobrienmp) June 19, 2017

CPI expresses reservations about Ram Nath Kovind’s candidacy

CPI national secretary D Raja said Union ministers Rajnath Singh and M Venkaiah Naidu, who were part of the BJP’s three-member panel formed to hold discussions and build a consensus on a presidential candidate, had not proposed any name.

“Now, they have named a person with RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. A meeting will be held soon to discuss the same,” he said to PTI.

Raja said Naidu spoke to him over the phone after BJP chief Amit Shah announced Kovind’s name and sought the CPI’s support for his candidature.  AICC general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad said the non-NDA parties will discuss the issue before taking any step.

Ram Nath Kovind likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at 7, reports suggest

#NewsAlert -- Bihar Governor #RamNathKovind likely to meet PM @narendramodi today at 7 pm pic.twitter.com/mgTBcgI6ly

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Nitish Kumar on Ram Nath Kovind

Before reaching Raj Bhawan to meet Bihar Governor and presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind, Kumar said to the press that the NDA’s choice was “a matter of happiness” for him.

Matter of happiness for me personally. As far as support is concerned, can't say anything right now. it is too early to say: Nitish Kumar. pic.twitter.com/EmccQ2krPl

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar reached Raj Bhawan to meet Governor #RamNathKovind. pic.twitter.com/gHU8gMZUAM

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Opp parties are meeting on 22nd. Only once in history of independent India has the president of India been elected uncontested: S Yechury pic.twitter.com/Cx1TlbIB62

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Picking Ram Nath Kovind as presidential candidate is a political decision: Sitaram Yechury

#RamNathKovind ji RSS ke Dalit sakha ke pramukh thay, wo ek rajneeti hua na. Ye seedhi seedhi rajneetik takrao hai: Sitaram Yechury, CPI(M) pic.twitter.com/UNccsWOUrV

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

I appeal to all political parties of UP to support son of UP, #RamNathKovind for president, raising above politics: CM @myogiadityanath pic.twitter.com/idpkyf82rx

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

The Opposition parties are meeting on 22nd June and then take a call: @SitaramYechury on NDA's Presidental Pick

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

I have spoken to 2 or 3 other Opposition leaders, they are also surprised: West Bengal CM @MamataOfficial on NDA's Presidential Pick pic.twitter.com/tr6I0EUlXM

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Kanpur (UP): Neighbours of NDA nominee for president #RamNathKovind celebrate outside his home. pic.twitter.com/RUz2H2OqE8

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) June 19, 2017

According to Shiv Sena sources, the party will wait till the Opposition decides its presidential candidate and then announce its final decision.

Candidate should be someone who will be useful for country. Oppn will meet on 22nd June, then I can tell if there will be a contest: WB CM

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

I am not saying that the Bihar Governor #RamNathKovind is unfit to be the President: WB CM @MamataOfficial on NDA's Presidential Pick pic.twitter.com/AzC3efnbHe

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

In order to support someone, we must know the person. Who is this candidate?: WB CM @MamataOfficial on NDA's Presidential Pick pic.twitter.com/LvpxoIWSUd

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar congratulates Ram Nath Kovind

Bihar CM @NitishKumar calls #RamNathKovind and congratulates him for being chosen as NDA's presidential candidate

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Congress was informed only after the decision was made: Ghulam Nabi Azad

Congress will not comment on NDA’s pick for the presidential candidate, said Ghulam Nabi Azad, after Amit Shah announced Ram Nath Kovind’s candidature. 

Azad further said that Congress has always believed that the Opposition will make an unanimous decision on the presidential candidate. Sonia Gandhi was authorised to form a sub-group. In the meantime, the BJP has decided that three senior ministers will talk to the Opposition about the presidential candidate. During the meeting, no mentioned was mentioned. 

Before the announcement, we had hoped for a discussion so that there is no consensus. They informed Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh only after the decision was made. This was a one-sided decision, said Azad. He added that the final decision will be taken by the Opposition after the 22 June meeting.

Congratulations to Shri Ramnath Kovind ji on being announced as the Presidential candidate of NDA (National Democratic Alliance). pic.twitter.com/pufVBCOrEH

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 19, 2017

I believe that all political parties will come forward and support NDA's candidate for the President's office.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 19, 2017

#CPI wants opposition to put up candidate against NDA's presidential candidate #RamNathKovind.

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2017

PM @narendramodi telephoned Andhra Pradesh CM @ncbn and informed Ramnath Kovind was chosen as NDA's presidential candidate. pic.twitter.com/73amy260ww

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Ramnath Kovind is BJP’s presidential pick: All you need to know about the Dalit leader from UP 

Read full report here .

AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu says TDP will offer full support to NDA's presidential candidate #RamNathKovind

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

Amit Shah had called Uddhav Thackeray and informed him about NDA’s pick for the presidential candidate. Sanjay Raut said Shiv Sena will convey its decision soon. 

Amit Shah ji informed Uddhav Ji about name of #RamNathKovind. Our party will decide on support in a few days: Sanjay Raut,Shiv Sena pic.twitter.com/vxj1So3Bbt

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

#RamNathKovind to meet PM Narendra Modi tomorrow in the evening pic.twitter.com/kazCe6xxBr

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

JDU’s Sharad Yadav said that the Opposition parties will meet and hold discussions on NDA’s decision

Opposition ki baithak hogi,usme naam pe vichaar karenge,NDA ne naam announce kiya hai uspe bhi baat karenge: Sharad Yadav,JDU #RamnathKovind pic.twitter.com/NK6EdIpqut

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

This has been decided by the PM and party president, #RamNathKovind is Dalit leader and has worked a lot for the party: Thawar Chand Gehlot pic.twitter.com/5ZM6quLf2f

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

If elected, Ram Nath Kovind will be the second Dalit Indian President

If elected, Ram Nath Kovind will be the second Dalit Indian President after KR Narayanan. The earlier names which were doing the rounds for Presidency included External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. 

“Ram Nath comes from a Dalit family and has struggled a lot. We hope he will be the unanimous candidate for the election,” Shah said.
 

He once headed the BJP’s Dalit wing.  Kovind was made the Governor of Bihar two years ago after the NDA took power in the centre in May 2014. 

IANS

A brief profile of #RamNathKovind, NDA's nominee for Presidential election pic.twitter.com/ILt2S993AR

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Ram Nath Kovind likely to file his nomination on 23 June

#RamNathKovind may file his nomination for president on June 23, says #AmitShah.

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2017

Opposition meeting on 22 June

#PresidentialPoll Meeting of Opposition parties to be held on 22nd June

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and Tamil Nadu CM E Palaniswamy before the announcement. 

PM Modi has spoken to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar,AP CM Chandrababu Naidu and TN CM E Palaniswamy #RamnathKovind

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Telangana CM and TRS Chief KC Rao extends support to NDA's presidential candidate #RamnathKovind after speaking to PM Modi pic.twitter.com/96UKg5YkKK

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

#RamNathKovind is married to Smt. Savita Kovind since 30th May, 1974 and have a son, Prashant and daughter, Swati. pic.twitter.com/PZyf139nst

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Venkaiah Naidu informed LK Advani and MM Joshi before announcement of name of Ramnath Kovind as the NDA presidential candidate

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

According to News18 , Ram Nath Kovind was born on 1 October, 1945 in Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh. He is a BCom graduate and has an LLB degree from Kanpur University. He was picked to be the Rajya Sabha MP from Uttar Pradesh in 1994 and served for two consecutive terms. 

#RamNathKovind has https://t.co/mGlKCxIS6F, L.L.B degrees from Kanpur University pic.twitter.com/VUhfV0TmYs

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

#RamNathKovind Was born on October 1, 1945 in Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/WcGU8SnIMz

— News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

In an earlier piece, Sunil Raman had written for Firstpost: “Modi and BJP president Amit Shah’s strategy to get Dalit-tribal duo in president and vice-president offices is meant to achieve multiple objectives” 

Read the full analysis here .

Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind has been declared as NDA's candidate for president. pic.twitter.com/YzYRl3ZRQo

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Vice-Presidential candidate has not been decided yet: Amit Shah 

No there has been no discussion yet on names for Vice President: Amit Shah

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

NDA’s presidential candidate

BJP president Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed the decision to Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh. He also said that Kovind has always fought for Dalit rights. 

Dalit aur picchhde vargon ke liye hamesha sangharsh karte rahe hain Ramnath Kovind ji: Amit Shah pic.twitter.com/ZGcjJrrLHR

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

PM ne khud Sonia Gandhi ji se baat ki hai, Manmohan Singh ji se baat ki hai, sabhi ko is faisle ka bataya gaya hai: Amit Shah

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017

Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind has been decided as our candidate for president: Amit Shah

— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2017