SP seeks Kalam's views on N Deal, says he feels it is good for Ind

New Delhi, Jul 3 (UNI) Within hours of demanding further clarifications from the UPA Government over the duclear deal for finalising its stand, the Samajwadi Party tonight virtually endorsed the civil nuclear pact with the US, saying former President and architect of the country's missile programme Dr A P J Abdul Kalam was in favour of the deal.

''Dr Kalam is of the view that the deal is beneficial for the country,'' Mr Yadav told reporters after a meeting with the former President at his residence here this evening.

Mr Yadav along with Party General Secretary Amar Singh, called on Dr Kalam after announcing at the United National Progressive Alliance(UNPA) meeting here today that all the constituents of the Alliance had decided by consensus that they would take the help of an eminent scientist, ''whose is beyond any doubt'' for seeking clarifications from the Government over the nuclear deal.

When asked whether he would now declare his support for the deal, Mr Yadav said his party would now consult the UNPA partners, briefing them about their discussion with Dr Kalam.

He said Dr Kalam was of the view that the deal was only for the good of the country.

''Without interest of the nation, there is no politics,'' added Mr Yadav.

UNI NAZ SR VC2114