Let Sangma read the constitution: Bengal Congress chief

Urging the Trinamool Congress to support United Progressive Alliance (UPA) presidential nominee Pranab Mukherjee, the West Bengal Pradesh Congress chief Sunday rebuked his rival P.A. Sangma for demanding a debate with Mukherjee.

"He has reportedly demanded a debate (with Pranab Mukherjee). Is he not aware of the constitution of India and the dos and don'ts of a president? He should first read it to develop better understanding of the post," state Congress president Pradip Bhattacharya said.

Sangma earlier sought a debate with Mukherjee saying the Indian economy was in a bad shape. "Democracy means debate... I am asking for a debate," Sangma said.

"He (Sangma) is not getting proper support, so he is trying to hog the limelight by using these tricks," Bhattacharya said.

The Rajya Sabha MP and veteran Congress leader said that he hoped the former Lok Sabha speaker would not get any support from political parties in Bengal.

"I hope Sangma will not get any support from any of the political parties from Bengal. I once again appeal to all the parties in the state, including the Trinamool Congress and other Left parties, to support Pranab 'da's' candidature," Bhattacharya said.

Trinamool, the second largest constituent of the UPA, is yet to announce its stand on the presidential choice after its preferred candidate, former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, declined to contest.

However, Trinamool chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has so far firmly opposed Mukherjee's candidature for president's post.