Chidambaram dismisses questions on PM candidature
Finance Minister P. Chidambaram Monday dismissed suggestions that he could emerge as prime ministerial candidate in 2014, saying he knew his limitations.
"I know my limitations and I live and conduct myself according to my limitations," he said, giving a "serious" answer to query about DMK leader M. Karunanidhi extending support to his possible candidature for the post of prime minister after the next Lok Sabha polls.
Chidambaram, who was addressing a press conference concerning rollout of direct benefits transfer, said he was also prepared to answer the question in a non-serious way.
"I know that some of you think I am foolish, but I am not so foolish as you think," he said.
At a book release function, Karunanidhi Saturday mentioned about the gradual rise of Chidambaram in national politics and said to loud applause that a "dhoti-clad Tamil should be the prime minister" indicated the people's expectation of him.
He said Chidambaram was one of the few who had a place in his heart.
Some other speakers at the event hoped Chidambaram would play a bigger role.
There has been discussion in political circles about Chdiambaram emerging as a possible prime ministerial candidate after the 2014 Lok Sabha elections if the Congress emerges winner and party general secretary Rahul Gandhi is not willing to take up the task.
