BJP's presidential pick gives India's tribal groups new momentum
They are seeking official recognition of religion practised by indigenous peoples
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India's 16th presidential election next week will see a tribal leader from the governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pitted against the opposition's candidate - a veteran politician and former party leader who is among its staunchest critics today.
While the Indian president is the head of the state, he does not exercise executive powers. The president is elected by members of Parliament as well as members of legislative assemblies of all states and those from Delhi and Puducherry.
