Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 19: In a significant political move, the united Opposition bloc on Tuesday announced former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy as its candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election, set to take place on September 9. The announcement was made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who framed the contest as more than just an electoral exercise, calling it an “ideological battle.”

“We will be filing his nomination on August 21,” Kharge confirmed at a press briefing, adding that Opposition leaders will convene for a strategy session in Parliament’s Central Hall on Wednesday to finalize campaign details.

Kharge emphasized that the decision to field a candidate was unanimous among the Opposition parties. Describing Reddy as a “pro-poor voice” and a staunch advocate for social and economic justice, he said Reddy embodies the principles of the freedom movement, the Constitution, and Indian democracy—values Kharge argued are under increasing threat today.

Born in Andhra Pradesh, B. Sudershan Reddy began his legal career there and later served as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. He was appointed to the Supreme Court in January 2007 and retired in July 2011.

Reddy will face off against the NDA’s nominee, Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, whose candidacy was revealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief J.P. Nadda on August 12. The timing of the Opposition’s announcement coincided with an NDA strategy meeting where PM Modi urged all MPs, including those in Opposition ranks, to support Radhakrishnan unanimously.

This Vice Presidential election comes in the wake of Jagdeep Dhankhar’s unexpected mid-term resignation from the post, officially citing health concerns. However, the move has triggered speculation about deeper political discord behind the scenes.

The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both houses of Parliament. With a strong majority in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the NDA holds a clear numerical edge, making its candidate the likely winner.

Nevertheless, the Opposition sees the election as an important moment to challenge the ruling party’s narrative and underscore democratic values. The Vice President also serves as the ex officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, adding weight to the political implications of the outcome.