With the Congress declaring Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee as its candidate for the Presidential election, netizens worked actively in the social circuit all through Saturday, declaring that they will accept none other than the missile man as India’s next President.
On social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter, over 2 million users voiced their opinions on pages dedicated to A P J Abdul Kalam. Reading the overwhelming response, Kalam himself posted a message stating, “Several political parties and leaders have spoken to me saying that they would prefer to see me as India’s President again. Many citizens have also expressed the same wish. I am really overwhelmed by this support. This being their wish, I respect it. I am open to the idea. However, I will take a final decision at the right time.”
A facebook regular, Vinod Kumar said, “You are the face of our nation Dr Kalam. You can be the best commander in chief right now. You are the apt peoples’ president. I hope our politicians are sensible to read the peoples’ pulse.”
Another user, Shaji Kallampally said, “You are a true patriotic person that our country now requires. You know god created some people to protect this world and common people from devils. God sent you to India to protect us, its your duty to save Indians from dirty politicians, but we as common patriotic Indians need you to be the next President of our country.”
Many others claimed that it was time someone saved the country from the increasing corruption. “I can’t look at my country being ruled by corrupt politicians. Those who vouch for Pranab, take a poll and see for yourself that a huge number of Indians would support Kalam over Pranab,” expressed Sreehari Radhakrishnan.
However, amidst supporters of the missile man were also those who stood by Pranab Mukherjee for the post of President. “There is no doubt that you are one of the best four Presidents India have ever had (other three being Dr Rajendra Prasad, Dr Radhakrishnan and Zakir Hussein). Pranab Mukherjee is equally competent as you and he enjoys a good rapport with all the political parties. However, since it is the first time Pranab Mukherjee has been nominated for Presidentship, I would stand by him. Pranab’s vast experience in various ministries and a sound knowledge in Politics and Government administration will help the President’s office to a great extent,” said Sathish Kumar Muthuraman.