Bhim Singh asks Patil to withdraw from presidential race

Panthers Party chief asks UPA-Left nominee to voluntarily withdraw from the presidential race, taking a cue from Sonia Gandhi.

Panthers Party Chief Bhim Singh on Thursday asked UPA-Left nominee Pratibha patil to voluntarily withdraw from the presidential race, taking cue from Congress president Sonia Gandhi who "gracefully" decided not to become the prime minister.

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"She should learn from her own party president Sonia who gracefully chose not to become the prime minister and as a result she has not only risen politically but also has earned respect and admiration," Singh, whose party has expressed support for Vice President Bhairo Singh Shekhawat, said in a press conference in the Capital on Thursday.

He has also written a letter to Patil citing reports of her alleged involvement in 'financial irregularities' as a reason for her withdrawal.

"I am in touch with the leaders of the third front. The victory of Shekhawat is sure," he said.