Give Kalam another term as President, hold caste census: Nitish

New Delhi, Apr 3 (UNI) Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has called for another term for President A P J Abdul Kalam as he has played a major role in inspiring the youth of the country.

Asked about the NDA's candidate for the post of President, Mr Kumar said, ''What's wrong with Dr Kalam. Why should he not be given another term.'' According to the Bihar Chief Minister, Dr Kalam has played a crucial role in motivating the youth of the country. He said that not only an eminent scientist but Dr Kalam is a visionary who has played a very vital role in giving hope to the people, instilling confidence among children and enthusing hope among youth.

Mr Kumar, who along with Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav, was among the first leaders to propose the name of Dr Kalam last time said the incumbent President's performance has been comendable and he deserves to be given another chance.

Asked what would be the NDA's option if the UPA government decides to field another candidate for the post of the President when Dr Kalam's term expires, Mr Kumar said the NDA would decide about its option when that time comes. However, he would certainly vouch for giving Dr Kalam another term.

Regarding the Supreme Court staying the implementation of the quota in central educational institutions, the Bihar Chief Minister demanded that the Prime Minister should call an all party conference to deliberate on the issue.

He also demanded that a caste census be conducted to determine the OBC population as demanded by the Apex Court. He did not agree with the Congress party's opinion that such a census would be divisive for the country. Mr Kumar said if the Court feels that 1931 census data was not upto date, the government has no other option but to go for caste-based census.

He, however, felt that since having such census would take another five to seven years, to prevent the escalation of social tension in the country, the government should call an all party meeting and deliberate on all the options available before it.

UNI