SP leader's remark triggers speculation on Prez candidate

A remark made by an SP leader on the use of the Hindi word 'hamara' by Mamata Banerjee today triggered speculation whether Mulayam Singh Yadav's party was still with Trinamool Congress in putting up APJ Abdul Kalam as a Presidential candidate.

A remark made by an SP leader on the use of the Hindi word 'hamara' by Mamata Banerjee on Friday triggered speculation whether Mulayam Singh Yadav's party was still with Trinamool Congress in putting up APJ Abdul Kalam as a Presidential candidate.

"There is no difference between we (hamara) and mine. On several occasions we use the word 'hamara' for single person also," SP General Secretary Ram Gopal Yadav said here.

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He was asked whether Kalam was the joint candidate of SP and TMC as Banerjee had used the word 'hamara' yesterday on their candidate for the President's post.

Ram Gopal Yadav said for any further clarification, reporters should ask party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav.

Asked about Ram Gopal Yadav's comments, Banerjee said, "Don't put Congress words into his mouth. Don't divide and rule. Hamara means 'dono ka candidate' (candidate of both). My Hindi may be bad, that may be the reason for confusion."