Chandra Shekhar supports Shekhawat

In the first statement of support outside the NDA, former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar on Friday endorsed the candidature of Mr Bhairon Singh Shekhawat for the post of President, saying he deserved "support from all".

Mr Chandra Shekhar, who maintains a good rapport with the vice-president, said in a statement that Mr Shekhawat "combines a lifetime experience of dedicated public service with rare qualities of head and heart".

"I wholeheartedly and without any reservation endorse/propose the election of Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as our next President," the Samajwadi Janata Party leader said. Mr Shekhawat is expected to contest as an independent with NDA backing.

He described Mr Shekhawat as "a public figure of eminence, high repute and impeccable secular credentials" who has discharged his latest responsibilities as the country’s vice-president entirely beyond party affiliations.

"He deserves support from all," Mr Chandra Shekhar said.