Shiv Sena has announced its support for Ram Nath Kovind, the BJP’s nominee for the Presidential Election. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray made this announcement after meeting senior party leaders in Mumbai this evening.

Addressing a press conference after the meeting, Mr. Thackeray said all the party legislators and MPs will support Ram Nath Kovind, almost clearing his way to Raisina Hill. Extending his well-wishes, Mr. Thackeray said Mr. Kovind belongs to a simple family and is a down to earth person who will competently perform his duties.

He added that BJP President Amit Shah had informed him that M S Swaminathan will not be able to contest the poll due to ill health. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat and father of India’s green revolution M S Swaminathan were Shiv Sena’s choices for the Presidential post. Stating that Shiv Sena is a part of NDA government at the Centra and the BJP led government in Maharashtra, Mr. Thackeray said it is not necessary for the party to oppose each and every decision taken by the BJP.