Why is the Congress Party against President Kalam? He is a scientist interested in education. He does not belong to any political party and is probably neutral. Their is no corruption charge against him and, as far as we know, he has not accumulated millions in black money. He is popular and children love him. Apart from his barber the man does not need to change anything to be perfect for the President's post. Why then is the Congress dead set against him? I have a vague memory of him returning a bill which he thought to be against fundamental rights. So is it pure vindictiveness or are the Congress leaders scared of his popularity? What if people people start demanding that every one should be as honest things could quickly get out of hand. Instead Mrs. Gandhi has recommended a faceless apparatchik who will do as she is told and already there are allegations of financial irregularities on her part and of murder against her brother. It is time that the President of India is elected directly by the people so that we are not shamed by little people occupying the highest office. Meanwhile Ms. Mayawati has declared assets of Rs. 520 million and she is the self proclaimed leader of Dalits. 'Dalit' means 'oppressed'. Can a woman with half a billion rupees describe herself as oppressed? Daughter of a postal clerk she used to be a teacher in a govt school. Where did she get so much money? Has she paid taxes on her wealth? Also she has become Chief Minister of UP without standing for election and will get in through the Upper House. As Trinny Lopez sang, 'Woe is me. Shame and scandal in the family.' Despair is our lot.