PM candidate debate can weaken NDA: JD-U to Advani

JD-U leader Harikishore Singh's recent meeting with L K Advani, where he reportedly conveyed that "JD-U has no problem with BJP declaring NDA PM candidate post-poll", is being seen as an indication of change in the stand taken by Nitish Kumar's party.

Nitish had earlier urged the BJP to announce its PM nominee before the polls with a rider that the candidate must have a "clean and secular image". Singh, a former Union minister, said, "Unnecessary discussion over NDA PM candidate can weaken and divide NDA and bolster chances of otherwise weakened UPA in Lok Sabha polls. I met Advaniji and requested him to avoid such a situation." Asked in what capacity he is making such a statement, Singh said, "I am a senior JD-U leader."

Singh is said to enjoy Nitish's confidence. Last month, he had said Nitish was the best bet for the PM candidate.

No top JD-U leader has gone on record with its stand on the PM candidate. Sources said that though Nitish spoke to Singh regarding his "controversial statements" being aired on news channels, the party has not disowned it.

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