The counting of votes is now underway in Parliament House for the Presidential poll. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee is the UPA candidate in the contest against Mr. P A Sangma, supported by some opposition parties. The ballot boxes from the states were brought to New Delhi under tight security, for the counting. Our Correspondent reports that results are likely to be out by late afternoon.
Besides the UPA and its supporting parties SP, BSP, RJD, JD(S) , NDA partners JD U and Shiv Sena have also extended their support for Mr Pranab Mukherjee. CPIM, YSR Congress and Forward Bloc have also lent their support for the UPA nominee.
Former Lok Sabha speaker P A Sangma jumped in to the fray with initial support of the BJD and AIADMK . The BJP and Akali Dal decided to back him. Mr Sangma had quit NCP, the party he founded with Mr Sharad Pawar to contest the presidential election.
New President will be administered the oath of office by the Chief Justice of Inida on Wednesday at the historic Central Hall of Parliament.