Revealed: How BJP First Considered Vajpayee for President Before Nominating Abdul Kalam

Dec 17, 2025 05:37 pm CST

A new book by Ashok Tandon, former media advisor to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, reveals that before nominating APJ Abdul Kalam for President in 2002, the BJP initially suggested Vajpayee himself for the position. The former Prime Minister declined, believing it would set an inappropriate precedent for Indian democracy. The book "Atal Smaran" offers unique insights into the political dynamics between Vajpayee, Advani, and opposition leaders during this significant period in Indian political history.