Sangma leaves Mamata door with ‘hope

P A Sangma, the presidential candidate of the BJP, BJD, and AIADMK, today met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to seek her support, but received no firm assurances. He was going back "with hope", Sangma said after the 20-minute meeting with the chief minister at Writers Buildings, which was also attended by Railway Minister Mukul Roy and senior Trinamool leader Subrata Bakshi.

"I have come to meet CM Mamata Banerjee and other leaders for the support of my candidature. We discussed not just the presidential election, but also the political scenario in the country. I am very happy with the outcome of the meeting and I am going back with a lot of hope for the support of Mamata and Trinamool Congress," Sangma said.

He said Mamata and he had "constructive" talks. "They will have a discussion within the party and inform me."

Sangma said he was confident of winning. "Look at my face and my body language." He said he expected cross-voting in his favour, including from the Congress.

The former speaker recalled that Mamata had supported him when he left the NCP in 2004. "She had supported me in 2004, and I hope this time too she will support me," Sangma said.

Mukul Roy said the Trinamool had not made a decision on Sangma yet. "There is still time, we will discuss in the party and then make our final decision. There is time, no hurry," he said.

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