Jaipur/New Delhi, Jan 8 : Former Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat has rejected BJP president Rajnath Singh''s advice not to contest in forthcoming general elections.

Shekhawat also said that he is not in the race for prime ministership.

"The present situation is that I am not contesting for the post of Prime Minister. I clearly said I will fight elections if my health permits," said Shekhawat.

Shekhawat also ridiculed Singh''s suggestion that one who has held a constitutional post, cannot contest elections.

"Rajnath Singh has said that one who once held a constitutional post cannot fight elections. I want to tell him that the first Governor General E. Rajagopala Chari went to Madras, fought elections there, and then became Chief Minister. After that, he also formed an independent party" Shekhawat said.

Rajnath has asserted that since Shekhawat has held the post of Vice President, there is no need for him to contest elections.

"Someone who has served on a constitutional post do not enter electoral fray. It is not in our tradition," said Rajnath.

Rajnath reiterated the party''s stand that senior BJP leader L. K. Advani remained the "undisputed" prime ministerial candidate. (ANI)