Political parties, as is their wont, play political games, whether in a parliamentary or presidential election. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who distinguished himself as one of India’s most popular Presidents during 2002-2007, seems to have been quick to sense the designs of self-serving politicians who were seeking to drag him into another presidential contest. With the ruling United Progressive Alliance announcing Pranab Mukherjee as its candidate, and the opposition National Democratic Alliance divided over forcing a fight, Mr. Kalam would have been staking his personal prestige and international reputation in a presidential bout without standing a realistic chance of winning. Often celebrated as the People’s President during his years in office, Mr. Kalam enjoys the love and affection of countless youth in the country. The octogenarian bachelor is seen as a selfless patriot standing apart from the much-derided political class. In 2002, when he decided to contest, the political circumstances were markedly different: both the major political formations, the NDA and the Congress, were with him, and only the Left parties put up a token fight. Now, with Mr. Mukherjee getting the support of even the Samajwadi Party — whose leader, Mulayam Singh, was instrumental in first proposing Mr. Kalam’s name in 2002 and floating his candidature this time around too — the presidential race is as good as over. The Left parties will decide on their stand on June 21, but no matter what, they would be averse to backing an NDA nominee even if it is Mr. Kalam.
Mr. Kalam would surely have realised he would be placing his own legacy under threat if he were to contest again. As a former President, he is taken seriously wherever he goes. On the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant issue, his views had a bearing on the broader public opinion, even if not on the local populace. If West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the BJP wanted him as President, it was only to serve their respective political ends. The BJP will do anything to embarrass the Congress, and Ms Banerjee will stop at nothing to stay in the spotlight and project herself as the prime mover of all things. To his credit, Mr. Kalam was able to see through the motives of his supposed backers, and resist the temptation to enter the fray. In 2007, when there was a similar move to make him contest again, he had rightly stepped back as he did not want to involve Rashtrapati Bhavan in any political process. Five years on, Mr. Kalam’s statesmanship, vision and sense of his own legacy remain undiminished.
Dr. Kalam is a towering personality in International arena. A model to emulate. As rightly pointed out he would have placed his own legacy and credentials under threat. It would really make the nation proud to have a president like him but certainly not him again.
The decision of Dr. Kalam for opting out of the presidential candidature is truly correct. He has once again proved that he is one of finest living legends. His period of presidency was great. He don't want to be a pseudo candidate running on the lines of political parties. Salute to Missile Man for keeping himself out of political game. We hope that Mr. Pranab Ji if selected will work as active president
The constitution does not give powers to the post of the President and is drafted as a ceremonial position similar to the British system. I remember the time when Rajendra Prasad, the first president raised the issue of presidential power against Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. It made a lot of noise, but did not make any difference. The President pleaded then to examine the post and its limits. It is always the decision of the ruling party which nominates the candidate without opposition. With respect to Dr Kalam, he is already doing a great job inspiring the youth in schools and colleges, where our future lies. I hope to meet him to congratulate him in person when he visits the USA in the near future. He already proved beyond party and politics.
Dr Kalam, by taking his name back win heart of indians, he favorable by heart not by choice, still he most eligible person from country to be president. but money eater won't understand.
Dr. Kalam still holds position #5 in Order of precedence of Republic of India', as a former President of India. Such dirty political games and tactics tarnish his image and dignity. Dr. Kalam is far above all in Indian politics. We are fortunate for being in his times! His decision of opting out was absolutely justified from his level of honorable stature. What he has given to the nation, is incredible. I respect him from the deepest core of my heart. Unfortunately, our country doesn't respect such people.
it is really a very great sorrow for me that such a great person is unable to serve the country again due to bad politics but for the time being it is a very crucial decision of not to fight the presidential election again for kalam sir i am fully agreed with your article that he took right decision at right time for himself and country also.
A pity for the nation ! look at the greedy participants of the presidential race viz Pranab, Sangma and others.... each one of them willing to squander public money to enjoy foreign vacations in name of strengthening bilateral ties !! we will miss u Pratibha patil forsure :-( Thanx to Congress again.
Dr. Kalam need not have waited such long time time if he had not planned to contest.
A big SALAAM to our great Dr Kalam.Please keep up your stature and not stoop down by contesting in an election for the post of the President and that too to be elected by many who do not know the value of the post.Let us pay for the negative aspects of democracy.
I am not certain as whom I want to be the next PM, or which party would be better in ruling the country, but one thing I am certain of is Dr. Kalam should not be made the President. We Indians are not supposed to have somebody as our President who could make us feel proud for being an Indian. We have always been very meek, docile and tolerant to whatever has been given to us. He wasn't a rubber stamp, He has an intellectual and shrewd brain (which he had used it to a pretty good extent during his tenure), He is a saint and leads a simple and austere life and to make things worse He is a patriot!
Totally agree with Divya Sood. People are looking for a non-political president. I'm disappointed with the decision taken by 'PEOPLES PRESIDENT'
No Contest. is it a democracy? Unanimous election or selection. A scam stained government is installing some one. He is good. is he Bipartisan? and there is not even an opposition. This is probably a time to amend the constitution to have direct elections for president role. so at least one person in India can be independent. An opportunity to choose a clean and Clever person by the electorate. Also Why Bharath Ratna Dr Kalam has to shy away from competing. He is a mentor for millions of Indians. What would he answer for his students, If they don't want to write exams because they think they may fail. He is an advocate of thinking BIG and never to fear of failure. I don't think he should stop competing. President position should not be choice of political parties. It should be choice of People. APJ Kalam is peoples choice.
Dr Kalam had made it clear right at the outset that he would be interested only if he became a consensus candidate. He is not a politician, and does not have the unscrupulous mindset of a politician needed for CONTESTING AN ELECTION. He must have thought he could do a bit of good for the nation if he became President again, but if he contested and won against the pseudo-Nestor, political mobsters would have made it IMPOSSIBLE for him to discharge his duties in his [second] tenure as President.
HI, Of course Mulayam used his name to strike background deals with the congress. Our politicians are the main barrier to india achieving its potential. Looks like we are a long way from achieving real freedom and economic equality.
Yes, it was correct for Mr. Kalam not to contest the election. However, I do not know why he took so much time to do that. The delay gives the impression that his decision to quit was guided more by the fact that he had no chance of winning the race as opposed to the desire to keep the office of the President above politics. I wish he had taken that decision as soon as Ms Banerjee announced his name in her press conference. That would have been more statesmanlike.
As always,Mr. kalam 'the people's favourite' has shown up -there's no political ambition only patriotism for the country.........
In India now-a-days even presendential election is a melodramatic event, our political leaders have created. Today we have lost a visionary person and a hope, since our sinking economy could have risen and political malaise reduced had we elected him.It is going to be a tough battle for BJP in 2014 and a piece of cake for congress thats what we can say by electing Pranab Mukherjee as the president.
The EDITORIAL is biased against certain persons for reasons best known. Like every other person opined that if CONGRESS PROPOSES his name , their will be a smooth ride for Dr.APJ, but because of forth coming LOK SABHA ELECTIONS with the CONGRESS COMBINE is not on a good note, they feel only persons of high caliber and trust worthy to the CONGRESS like Mr. PRANABJI would take wise decisions at the zero hour. Eminent person like Dr. APJ who even after demitting the august office get him self occupied with various lecture presentations, GLOBAL GREEN REVOLUTIONS and host of other activities for the welfare of the human kind. Such persons are popular with the intellectual masses but not for political circus. I have not see such Ex-President active in their post career and free of family bondage. I would prefer let the CONSTITUTION BE AMENDED TO MAKE ELECTION OF PRESIDENT AND PM DIRECTLY BY THE PEOPLE, instead of arithmetic of politicians.
That Dr.Kalam lent his name to be in the fray even after the UPA selected Pranab for the top job gives credence to prove Kalam's desire for a second term,given the chance. As reader Chandra has rightly claimed if the Congress had agreed for Kalam he would have happily accepted the offer.It is also a pity that while there are so many other eminent personalities available to adorn the mantle of the President why this running after someone who has already been in the Raisina Hill for five years and had repeatedly expressed 'no desire' for a second term?Let us look at this issue dispassionately and without any servile attitude.Let us not forget that even an ordinary citizen who is well qualified and a true nationalist would keep the glory of the country and the position he holds high and there are many devoted nationalists to perform the constitutional duties attached to the job equally if not better.We only will have to identify them as we did when we installed Kalam as our President.
I wonder why he did not indicate a firm 'NO' on day one, when his name was first suggested by M&M. His conscience is suspect!
In today's political set up people like Pranab & Patil will exactly fill the bill.
Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam is Abdul Kalam. That is the beauty of that great personality. Dear politicians please learn good things from our greatest son of the soil.
Dr Kalam refusing to stand for election because he may be defeated is not a very good reason not to stand. To stand and satisfy a few opposition leader's whim is a totally different matter. Losing under such circumstances is unacceptable - and Dr Kalam made the correct decision. Alas, we lost a great opportunity for a man who should have had a second term anyway - even at the end of the first, if it had not been for unhealthy political machinations.
Sir, Kudos both to THE HINDU & Dr.APJ KALAM! Despite much goading, our Kalam-ji did not mince to be the 'missile' for the NDA & Co. He has favoured a consensus stand for the very High Office of the President of India, is quite evident from the way he has all along conducted himself. He neither jumped into the fray - as the NDA wished nor abandoned the hope of Indians. But as things stand today, he had done the BEST for India - by abstaining from the contest. The irony is the fact that the NDA lead by its IRON MAN(Generation-II) - LK Advani - could not muster enough ammunition to launch the MISSILEMAN into his polarised political orbit at the crucial hour. It is a shame indeed for the NDA & co. ,in this prestigious Presidential 'fight'. Contrarily, despite the unnerving choices - made by Didi Mamta, Congress - has hoisted Pranab - as their candidate. In the face of it - Mr Mukerjee's PM ambition has been neutralised, by positioning him to the Rashtrapathi Bhavan-2012!
The functioning of Mr. Mukherjee as finance minister leaves much to be desired. The country's economy has taken a beating of his no knowledge on his very own portfolio. It's a known secret that he cannot hold a candle to Mr. Kalam.
It is most unfortunate that the veteran's name was dragged into a sheer conspiracy to block the cakewalk of Mr Pranab Mukjerjee to the coveted post. Mamata Banerjee will remain always a blacksheep till the time she sits in the chair of the premiere.. We are sorry to witness all these bullshits/power game till we get a unanimous president. The patriotic politicians are things of the past and the current politicians are only interested in musical chairs to be won either with money or muscles. It is high time we must have only two parties , one on the ruling side and the other on the opposition, as we witness in the west. Congrats to the national newspaper for the timely coverage /intervention of opinions on the subject of national interest. Mr Kalam should have kept silence till the time all the controversies were over about him, since Mamata congress launched his candidature without consulting him at the first place. Ofcourse the national dailies are keeping themselves busy about this.
Mr.Kalam should not be presiding over a political system that practically is built on vote-purchase and booze distribution.
It was expected. Mr. APJ Kalam, respected by all, his conscious does not allow him to go for petty selfish dirty politics. Sir, Your respect become more and more............
Dear Editor, Your editorial is excellent and gives the whole issue in right perspective. Now I am able to well understand the rationale behind Mr. Abdul Kalam decision, not to contest. Dr. Kalam would continue to be the most popular President of our times.
well done sir. Politician like to win by using your name. If they are true to their effect, they should have informed first and they should have went to congress first as they are the ruling party and asked for their support. but they try to break and win and finally they lost.
Though Mr. Kalam is able to see through the motives of his supposed backers, in my opinion, he is still keen enough to enter the Raisana Hills. The implicit consternation of this kind obviously invisible which limits his tall stature.
It is a wise decision of a great man. Given the political equations prevailing at present and politicians seeking to maximize their interests, it is almost impossible for a person like A.P.J. Kalam even to maintain his clear and dignified image after entering in this highly politicized presidential contest race.
Mr.Kalam is right person & better choice for Presidential post as our current president Pratibha Patil has spent her tenure in controversy surrounding her and wasted our hard tax payer money for foreign tour along with there family friends & relative is so disgraceful that knowing the fact india's debt is increasing due to incompetency of present congress goverment, country require professional & hardworking person like Mr.A.P.Kalam who is very simple and straight forward who will put country's interest first will earn respect globally.however i personally fill mr.Pranab Mukharjee must be given tough fight as he is also not a appropriate person for this post.the way he has brought with retrospective change in the income tax act is something which is not wise thing.
It is not for nothing that he is described as the peoples' president. He sensed the mood of the nation , correctly at this juncture and left the scene in a dignified way. it will also be interesting to note the stance taken by Mr Ram jethmalani, on the race to Raisina hill. He was heard blasting Mr Pranab on the policy issues and charged him as the suthradhari for protecting black money abroad and he is the face of the corruption prevailing now.
why not the opposition parties field him as a candidate. Atleast he would ensure in tearing Pranab and UPA apart during the next one month and make pranab's entry less comforting .
Some are big and adorable by virtue of the office or position they hold in society.With few the office or post gets adorned by their holding it and Dr.Kalam belongs to this category. A vast majority of people look up to him with affection and love for his uncommon simplicity and knowledge of men and matters.The added advantage for him (though not a necessary qualification) is he has no distracting personal baggage of having to usher in his progeny deservedly or otherwise.Kalam or no Kalam the country will march on but the kind of electoral politics practised in the country badly needs people like Dr.Kalam whose impeccable calibre approximates to that of selfless leaders of a bygone era.
One's respect is his own hands. The ex-president increasing his respect in the hearts of the countrymen with yet another magnanimous decision.
The Hindu editorial is usually very thoughtful. At this time, when the health of Indian democracy itself might be in great danger, should The Hindu have been more reflective and proposed alternatives and ways forward in the larger interests of the nation and its people (see Lead article)? Dr Kalam is wise to spot the political shenanigans and opt to preserve his past record. He has served the nation with distinction, and no one can blame him if he now wishes to take a rest. The citizens witness in numbed silence how the ruling parties succeed in manipulating the democratic scene to further their aims with great ease, and the motley bunch of opposition parties "grab whatever, while they can, and run", unconcerned about displaying severe myopia, a lack of vision/strategy/plan/action, total disunity & disarray. Don't cry for India ...
President is a toothless position. It doesn't make much difference whether Kalam got it or not. Even if he had become President what could he have done, besides visiting schools and asking students 'to dream'. What does make a difference is that a Congress guy like Pranab got this position, which means he would be a rubber stamp for all practical purposes.That's what is more worrisome than Kalam getting it. Also now the Finance ministry would be usurped by another one of corrupt UPA ministers. Atleast Pranab wasn't tainted by any scams
Actually can anybody what did he do when he was in the top post?
'a selfless patriot' should not care for 'his personal prestige and international reputation'. We will love and respect him always. Our behaviour will not depend on the result of any election. We know He is the best person among all candidates, who will surely serve and think about our country's progress after being President of India. He must have stepped forward for Presidential Election.
Mr.Kalam should have taken it as challenge but he was afraid of being defeated in election.
the decision of the missile master is a victory for him and it is a loss
for us.
Mamta Banerjee has time and again exhibited her "secular" credentials. But, The Hindu is not still happy, because she is staunchly anti-Communist. What a pity! In spite of Pranabda's emergency-Sanjay Gandhi legacy, The Hindu is favourably disposed, only because Mamta B. is hostile towards Pranabda. The Hindu calls itself India's National Newspaper.
This is a fantastic article on esteemed Mr Kalam, a truly statesman. We will not find a President like his cadre.
Right perspective of the situation. Nice to see Hindu's editorial.
Well Done indeed, Dr.Kalam. Glad that he has not fallen into the trap of selfish designs of Mamta Banerjee, who is clearly not distinguishing herself in the office of the Chief Minister, and leading the state of West Bengal and instead indulging in political antics.
Dr.Kalam is wise to clearly see that he was being made a "Pawn" in the politics of India.
Mr. Kalam is most respectable persion of our country and all political parties should be agree on president Kalam but unfortunately a best personality is far from his best honour.
Mr. Kalam is a true Indian and after serving as a president once, he is
far above from president post. He is the greatest statesman of India.
Salute you sir...!!!
I don't think so it is a wise decision. It can be a wise decision for
Mr. Kalam but as the nation it is a bad decision. He has to contest for
the election for sake of this nation no matter what reputation you
have. He is well respected in the youth and every Indian wants him as
the president. Why he is not understanding the sense of common people.
these corrupt politician are looting the India.
Please Mr. Kalam reconsider your decision and contest for the president
election. I am sure finally you will be elected. Mr. Pranab doesn't
have clear support there is very good chance of you. People don't want
the congress president stamp president. People want a president who can
take his own decision.
Mr. Pranab mukharjee is also the puppet of Sonia gandhi. He will not
take individual decision.
Your editorial is sure an excellent tribute to the former First Citizen of the country.The first image Mr. Kalam strikes in any Indian's mind is that he is a remarkable human being.He is a celebrated celibate.He is simple in his life but lofty in his thoughts.He may prefer sitting on the sands of Rameswaram sea shore and meditating to rollicking in the State offered luxury of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.He is a true patriot in to the core.When he exorts the youth to dream,it is a clarion call to them to make our nation strong.He is a pious and passionate scientist to put wishing to exploit the latest factors of technology to empower his mother country.This fetched him the sobriquet "missile man."So it is stupid to think that Mr.Kalam may fall for the temptation the partisan politicians raise to trap him for contesting the presidential post.Kalam amply illustrates his unique mindset in his brief books:'Wings of Fire','Ignited Minds'and India2020:A Vision for the New Millennium'.
Kudos to THE HINDU to highlight the article & Salute to Dr. Kalam ( People's President of India for EVER)
"THE HINDU" will never miss, even a smallest chance to blame BJP. Again and again you made it clear!!
This is the biggest farce/flaw of present day 'democracy'. More than 70%
of the people [may be even 90%] want Kalam as president over anyone. But
their representatives do not as their parties are not allowing them to
support Kalam! So do the elect represent the people who elected them or
do they represent just their parties? Ridiculous!
The present condition of India is no better than a log of wood that is
flowing towards a deep water fall. Dr. Kalam should have stepped
forward and firmly he should have proclaimed his stand for
Presidential Election.
In the situation like this Dr. Kalam should not have thought of him
being an individual person but should have thought what can be done
after attaining the post. After Dr. Kalam’s tenure he couldn’t do much
for the country, but now is a chance to serve this nation again.
There is a saying ‘ shakti k istamaal ke liye , shakti k pass hona
zaroori hai’ it is very important to be near power, to utilize it ‘
"Hindu's" observation is absolutely correct. The decision taken by Mr. Kalam is the right. Political parties are using his esteemed name for their personal gains. Even after knowing that his candidature is going to lose the contest, these hopeless, dirty politicians are trying to drag him in this fray. Well done Mr.Kalam.
Well reasoned article. The point Dr.Kalam underscored was that it was
better to be a martyr than a fool.His sagacity overcame the crassness of
his self-serving politcian supporters. Mamata's churlishness must have
been a clarion call to Kalam's sensitivity !!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe in a
different India, things might have been otherwise. But then in a
different India, we'd not have the likes of Mamata.
an extremely well written editorial analyzing the politics and character
of Dr.kalam. public have no say in presidential election in this country
and it is dirty politics that decide not only the fate of that wonderful
monument called rashtrapathi and rashtrapathi bhavan but also the
terrace of the country which stands on some of the pillars like
politics! To the question Where is India going, who knows, as this
question is unanswerable even by that unknown unseen unheard
omnipotence!!!!
It is fuuny how the editorial derides BJP & TMC for propping Dr. Kalam
for presidential election and then goes on to tell how great Dr. Kalam
as an Indian President was!!
Whatever motives BJP and TMC had, if Kalam is an worthy candidate for
president's post he SHOULD have been backed by Congress too. Dr. Kalam
is held in high esteem by large section of Indian society. It is a
shame that Congress put Parnab Mukherji for president's post, a man
who spent his whole life as loyal servant to Gandhi family and not to
nation. Only the die hard supporters of congress will have respect for
the new president not the public in general for whom Parnab remains a
shrewd politician, nothing more! Sad days for President's office.
The presidential election is nothing less than a political circus.This shows the difference between a common man ( Dr. Kalam) and a politician ( Mr. Mukherjee). As soon as Dr. Kalam realised that the game is gonna get dirty he opted. Sad people of India cannot opt for their presidential candidate.
Dr Kalam has expectedly refrained from contesting a political battle for an apolitical office. For
his admirers the disappointment this time around is not so great compared to the painful time
when political parties few years back did not show the courage & willingness to ensure his
second term after he amply proved his worth as a peoples' President by showing a vision &
mission to lead & take the country forward to achieve its potentials that had got affected due to
the mindless & self-centered political class. Though out of office, Dr Kalam has been doing
yeoman service to the cause of national integration by regular interaction with the common man
about his vision, urging youth to stay united, focussed to achieve the goal to build an India of
their dreams. That being the case, it is shocking/disappointing to me as a Tamil that the DMK &
AIADMK have failed to rally around the man as they have done with regard to Bharathiyar - alas
they fight cartoonists for caste politics!
Hats off to you, Dr. Kalam. You have taken a very wise and balanced decision. You did not fall a prey to the machinations of Delhi politicians. You are a statesman par excellence and you should continue to live that way and guide the youth of India as you have been doing so far. Please help them to achieve their dream. You are the unquestioned people's president of India. You decorated the office of the president and the Rashtrapathi Bhavan between 2002 and 2007. You left a legacy there.
Dr Kalam is a true fighter all through his career in building
institutions.He should have continued to do so and prevent spoiling
the office of the President.IF he opts out, there will be no
opportunity for neutral views on matters of governance.Pranab M served
congress for many years.All his views will be in line with the
congress party.For the BJP this is going to be a major hurdle if they
have to raise any issues related to the nation .In 2014 if congress
rigs all the elections to install rahul and the election commission
becomes a mute spectator,and if they reach out to Pranab M they are
not going to get justice.Hence they have to find alternatives.The
Hindu and Dr Kalam should consider this view as well.For the BJP they
have to position someone who can out beat Pranab M, only person they
can for now is Dr Kalam.The unfortunate time is still continuing by
not giving wisdom to Dr Kalam and giving opportunistic ideas to the
media to support Pranab M.
By deciding not to contest has Dr. Kalam sent out a message that he cannot stand against the people with vested interest (political parties)? to serve the country you have to stand and people will support you. yes, he might have upheld the dignity of the office of president but has let the people down.
On the other hand Dr. Mukherjee is the UPA's candidate as he has been in politics for a long time and has served the party (Cong). he might be good choice for the post, but is he the right choice?
i am amazed a reading the comments where people are blaming Mamata, NDA, etc for doing politics, when the main ruling party is calling shots and does not seem to care about the countries interest (party & partymen first). Isn't Mamata, NDA and others trying to convince Dr. Kalam to atleast contest.
The editorial is very balanced nice one.Yes Mr.Kalam is a man of integrity and really the first option for the post of president.But his decision shows that he is par excellece in honesty and not interested to put elements of political opportunism in the presidential election.Thank you The Hindu for such an impartial article.
Kalam has once again proved that he is far above petty politics. He
has taken a stance to prove his stature and dignity. That is why The
Indian Youth stand behind him. We need more Kalams than the ordinary
politicians. The short-comings of ordinary politicians are overcome by
the dignity of People like Kalam. Kalam.....you are the torch-bearer
of Future India. Please maintain a loooooooooooong distance from the dirty politicians. They are cunning and self-serving. We need you to
lead us with your vision and personality. We are always with you.
This content make us very clear about the dirty politics running behind the presidential post.Mr Kalam is serving our country with great finesse. After scrutinizing the situation, I think Mr Kalam has taken the right decison.He is truly a source of inspiration to all of us.
Once again he has confirmed that he is the fittest person for the office but the political parties particularly the Congress proved how uncaring they are for public opinion
Mr. Kalam was all but a political projectile as envisaged by TMC and
BJP. BJP & TMC, the individual couples, realized they can reach the
Raisiana riding Mr. Kalam's reputation. But former president did the
calculations right & realized his range as projectile is lesser than
the distance between 26 Mall Road & Raisina Hills. The Bharat Ratna
awardee had proved himself as the president of India. He had got
nothing to prove. Had he decided to contest he had every thing to
loose. Because as thongs stand he' have lost to Pranab & even if he
would have won he would have gained little. The popular sentiment is in
the favour of Kalam but the fact is people don't vote for president.
The political parties vote a for presidency they have this prerogative
of making or unmaking of president. Because political parties are
involved in presidential election political games will be played. There
is no reason to condemn parties for playing politics. Only thing is the
game should have been more fairly.
It was through The Hindu's In The News Column that I came to know about
this most eligible bachelor -Dr A.P.J Addul Kalam in the early 1990s .
Ever since I have been observing with great interest the great journey
traversed by this exceptional human being . And what a fitting tribute
by The Hindu to Dr Kalam with its highly editorial " Well
done,Mr.Kalam"
N.Gurumoorthy
Dr. Kalam has really taken a wise decision, by staying out of the political trap. But the question to be asked is will any other politician be able to serve nation like Dr.Kalam did?. The question has a perfect NO as ans,henceforth it proves that what is the level of lack of leadership in country. The real leaders are not entering into it as they say its all politics, and the malign leaders doesn't want to leave politics as they think they are serving the nation. Where is INDIA going???
That was high thoughtful and well decided. If a person like Kalam had contested a second time, he would have looked small in the public eye. He would have been a puppet in the hands of the so-called 'leaders'. The very fact that he had to turn down the offer is indication of the sad state of affairs!!!
No need to hail Dr Kalam for not contesting the election for the President assuming he would not win. The question is, does the country not need a more honest and capable person than Mr Mukherjee as its President when its people are crying for help on price rise and corruption? Does Dr Kalam not have confidence that his contesting Mr Mukherjee would at least consolidate the popular belief that he shares people's grief and agony in difficult times? Looking for a definite win before the contest is diluting this belief. With Dr Kalam running away from contest, the sensible thing for the BJP is to nominate Advani to contest the election.
I share the views expressed in the edit. However, it would have been much better if Dr Kalam if he had refused to contest and rejected the idea in the initial stage itself. Concerned citizens feeling is that we should make a constitutional amendment if necessary to ensure that an individual holds office of President of India for not more than five years.
Mr Kalam, Salaam to you sir! Though the country needs people like u at the top, u will be alone there even if u could win the so called election. Country will remember u as one of the best presidents ever. May God give u long and healthy life and mind to serve the country for many more years!
Mr.Kalam has been pushed out very cleverly!!It is impossible to clean the dirt with out getting in to it. Mr.Kalam should have taken it as challenge.
Day by Day Hindu is just becoming a daily pro-congress tabloid.I am happy wtih Kalam backing out from the political deride but I fail to understand the fact as to why is it always necessary to be hostile to BJP or for that matter anyone who is against Congress
After Mahatma Gandhi, I am seeing only Dr.A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in India with statesmanship, vision and wisdom. May God's blessings be always with him !
it sounds strange and illogical to me to conclude that if kalam contests and loses, his legacy will be tainted. this is precisely the logic that keeps lot of people from participating in politics. lincoln won and lost so many contests. reagan lost even nomination fight before he won the presidency. numerous other people have done so - both political and non-political.
Though he was never that keen for a 2nd term in Raiseena Hills, and people will always laud his decision to stay away for this political game which is being played by dragging his name in centre; but still the Missile-Man is most sought for and most popular name for the 1st citizen of the country..
"If West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the BJP wanted him as President, it was only to serve their respective political ends"- Dear editor BJP and Mamata expressed the whole Nation's wish and it was congress not with people choice. Wish there will be a general election for President selection too i future along with Parliament election.
True, ex President Dr.Kalam has maintained the dignity of the office he held once, and has yet again revealed his persona as a great individual and statesman. India will be needing more men like Dr Kalam to regain its top slot in the global reckoning.
Dr. Abdul Kalam is perfectly right in justifying that the current political situation does not warrant his staging a comeback. Perhaps the race for the presidential post almost got over now with Mr. Pranab Mukherjee emerging as a front running candidate. The point is one cannot take things and people for granted. Mamata Bannerjee ought to have consulted Dr. Kalam before proposing her candidate for the post. In nutshell, Dr. Kalam not contesting the poll is a slap on the face of Mamata who badly wanted him to take on Pranab Mukherjee.
This is a very interesting observation by the Hindu. While maintaining that Dr.Kalam had been one of the most popular Presidents and a true patriot, it seems to be putting a blame on the parties which wanted to see him as President. It spares and sometimes praises the pragmatism and political opportunism of those who wanted to see his back. The editor has turned a Nelson's eye to the fact that nothing prevented the Congress from accepting the gentleman as a consensus candidate which would have averted a contest as well.
Dr.Kalam is much taller than the rest of the Delhi crowd. He is our President, the people's President for ever. It is a pity that our system does not vest any right of choice with the people to let their leader govern them.
Apolitical Dr.Kalam as President would certainly have been qualitatively superior to political Pranab though the latter too to a lesser extent makes the grade for the high office in his own way.Everyone knows the 2014 verdict is going to be fractured and in such a situation an apolitical President will have inspired more confidence in the voting public as regards installing the new government but in our country politics takes precedence in every thing and it is not for nothing that political parties exist to fight for their place.A political PM and an apolitical President would have been ideal to serve people's interests but wish horses.President or no President Dr.Kalam remains high in people's esteem.Let it remain so forever. remain so forever.
A lucid and balanced editorial on the political maneuverings related to the election of the President of India. It is unfortunate that the good name of former President Kalam is being dragged in to the fray -- as a sacrificial lamb -- despite the fact that the numbers are in favour of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Quite rightly, Dr. Kalam has clarified his unwillingness to contest the post he graced, a few years ago. There is no justifiable reason to put up an opposition candidate just for opposition sake, unless that individual has made as distinguished a contribution to public life as Shri Mukherjee. Dr. Kalam, with his inherent ability to inspire a youthful populace, will continue to be an icon of hope and determination.
The Hindu has rightly expressed the views of millions of Indians both young and old.Dr A P J Abdul Kalam is a beacon of light amidst the darkness of current Indian politics.He would have become a pawn in the political chess.Dr Kalam belongs to India first and last.He is respected by one and all.Salute to his sagacity.
It is laudable to see the sagacity of Mr Kalam not tofall prey to the present unscruplus politicians.
It is sad that the Hindu seems to be gleeful at Kalam not contesting. The hidden happiness is at BJP is put to problem! But the Hindu has missed that Pranab is going to be one of the worst Presidents and so the loss is not to BJP but to the country and its tradition!
Mr. kalam's decision is very rite,but we all want to see him as a president again.In all this corrupt political world,we have no one to see as an ideal.If Mr.kalam be the president it will be a honor for the presidential post.
There is a negative side to it. The sordid backroom deals that are now part of the political process means that India is unlikely to have another president of Dr. Kalam's calibre. No one of his stature and dignity would be willing to put himself (or herself) through the degrading process.
It is, indeed, praiseworthy that a person of the eminence of Dr Abdul Kalam refused to be involved in the forthcoming contest for Presidentship. Knowing fully well that the chances of winning the elections are remote, political parties could have avoided from making an approach to Dr Kalam whose stature, wisdom and sagacity will continue to remain sky-high and serve as a beacon light to mankind.
Kalam is definitely a politican with double-talk as and when required and not an intellectual who can stick to principles. Even at the end of his term he said he was not interested in another term and would pack and go and later changed to if elected unanimously he was ready!Now he waits to see his chances and quits when support is not there!!Had congress nominated him what would be his reaction?
Dear Editor,This is indeed a good edotorial and a realistic reflection of the political scenario that arose in the backdrop of the imminent presidential election.You have aptly said that the decision of Dr.Kalam is right so far as that he has not fallen prey to the complacent political ends of the so-called backers.To a person like Dr.Kalam enjoying high credentials and reputation, these political parties in effect had done disservice to him than honouring him.I agree with you that Dr.Kalam has been dragged into the scene only to suit their purpose.Indian politics, with such bickerings reveal us of the corroding tendencies inherent in it where concensus, democracy and respect are dumped to the back door.It's all the more unfortunate that the opposition even in the election of the prime citizen of India, make a wild goose chase.
As justly pointed out by the editorial Dr. Kalam’s nomination as Presidential Candidate had political intent in the minds of most politicians, which was wisely recognized by Dr. Kalam. At the same time this decision is a reflection of our democracy where people voice is not appreciated by most political parties, which is how it was envisaged when the constitution was framed by Dr. Ambedkar. The underlying message from this episode as visualized earlier too is disconnect between people and its repesentatives.
It is high time people make their representatives accountable and
follow their wishes rather than parties whip.
A very nice analysis of Mr. Kalam's decision. And I personally feel that this was quite a wise decision by ex-president.
This article has very beautifully accounted the politics behind the making of our next President of India.Every one desires to be in power. Mulayam Singh shifting support from Kalam to Pranab Mukherjee,must have found advantageneous in looking forward for supporting Centre . Congress wanting Pranab to be the next President because it is looking forward to 2014 election .What we can call it as "far-sightedness" . Pranab himself wanting to be in power.Mamta Bannerjee wanting to enjoy the spotlight . Surrounded with so much of politics,Kalam voluntarily pulling himself out of this is seriusly what we can call it as "WELL DONE",seriusly salute to our "MISSILE MAN" .
Dr.APJ Abdul Kalam is a dignified person who has to be elected unanimously and he has taken a right decision and stands apart from political goalkeepers. Since he is out of race we are the real losers who are deeply wounded.
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