Congress tribal leaders step out to oppose Sangma

Asked who are these communal forces, the former Chhatisgarh chief minister told reporters, "The Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies are representing communal forces."

Sangma has sought support from various political parties for his presidential bid.

"One should not declare himself as a presidential candidate. It is such a high office. It has never been demanded by any individual. Country chooses... Electoral colleges decide it. But Sangma has claimed it as tribal leader, which is wrong," the Congress tribal leader said.

Asked whether he was against the tribal candidate, he said, "We are not against any candidate. The United Progressive Alliance has not decided on it as discussions are going on."

He further said, "Either there should be consensus on deciding the candidature or whoever has majority will decide."

Asked about his stand on supporting a tribal candidate for the presidency, Jogi said the party has not decided yet. "If the party decides for a tribal candidate, we will definitely support it."

To a question whether he himself would like to be a presidential candidate as a tribal leader, Jogi said, "No way."

Asked whether the Congress has decided to oppose Sangma, he said, "The party has not decided yet. It is our view."

Recalling earlier presidential elections, Jogi said, "Once a tribal leader from Meghalaya, GG Swell, was the candidate and then Sangma had opposed him. Now he is seeking support in the name of tribals."

Jharkhand Rajya Sabha member Pradeep Balmuchu said, "Sangma belongs to the NCP and his party is also not supporting him on the issue."

Minister of State for Water Resources Vincent Pala, Manipur MP Rishang Keising and Arunachal MP Ninong Erring are among other tribal leaders who were present on the occasion.