Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 21: In a significant political development, retired Supreme Court judge Justice B. Sudershan Reddy formally submitted his nomination for the post of Vice President of India on Thursday. Nominated by the Opposition INDIA bloc, Justice Reddy described his candidacy as a reaffirmation of India’s constitutional ethos and democratic principles.

"Filing my nomination today was not just a personal step, but a solemn commitment to uphold the values embedded in our Constitution,” Justice Reddy said in a public statement following the submission of his papers. “I do so with humility and a deep sense of responsibility.”

Reflecting on his decades-long service in the legal and public domain, Justice Reddy emphasized that his experience as a Supreme Court judge and as a citizen shaped his understanding of India’s foundational values. “The real strength of our nation lies in its constitutional morality, the dignity of every citizen, and our unity in diversity,” he remarked.

Justice Reddy framed the upcoming election as a contest rooted in principle, not personality. “This election is about defending the soul of Indian democracy. It's about ensuring that Parliament remains a space of integrity, that dissent is honoured, and that our institutions function with independence,” he added.

He also addressed the constitutional role of the Vice President as Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, pledging to uphold parliamentary decorum and impartiality. “If elected, I will carry out my duties with dignity and fairness, fostering dialogue and protecting parliamentary traditions,” he promised.

Justice Reddy expressed heartfelt gratitude to the opposition leadership and to citizens for their support. “I thank the INDIA bloc leaders for their trust and the countless citizens who continue to inspire our collective pursuit of justice, equality, and harmony,” he said. “With hope in our people and faith in our democracy, I begin this journey.”

The nomination was filed in the presence of several key opposition leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, and representatives from DMK and other INDIA bloc constituents. A total of 80 MPs have endorsed his candidacy.

Justice Reddy is set to contest against the NDA’s nominee, C.P. Radhakrishnan — the current Governor of Maharashtra and a senior BJP figure from Tamil Nadu. The election for the Vice President’s post is scheduled for September 9.