President poll: Sangma to contest even if Kalam is in fray

11:00 AM: The NCP tried to persuade its leader PA Sangma to withdraw from the Presidential race, according to sources. Sangma, however, made it clear that he won't withdraw from the race. Speaking to CNN-IBN, Sangma said, "I will not withdraw from the Presidential race. I will contest in the elections even if Kalam is in the fray."

Sangma also said that he was confident of having the numbers. Sources had said that NCP leader DP Tripathi met PA Sangma to persuade him to withdraw after party chief Sharad Pawar asked him to.

Former President APJ Abdul Kalam remained silent on the Presidential elections and said, "I will take a decision at the right time."

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has invited former President APJ Abdul Kalam for lunch on Friday. Nitish Kumar had also gone to receive APJ Abdul Kalam at the Patna airport on Thursday. Sources say Kalam has accepted his invitation. According to sources, Nitish has said that the NDA is yet to decide on whether Kalam will be their preferred candidate.

The NDA meeting started at 11 am at senior leader LK Advani's residence to discuss the situation. The BJP has, however, said that it was waiting for the UPA to come out with a nominee first.

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