New Delhi, Aug 21: The INDIA bloc’s Vice Presidential candidate and former Supreme Court Judge Justice B. Sudershan Reddy is set to file his nomination papers today.
The election is scheduled to take place on September 9.
Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge announced Justice Reddy's candidature on Tuesday in New Delhi, following a meeting of the Opposition alliance.
While presenting him as the joint candidate on Wednesday, Kharge stated, "This Vice-Presidential election is not merely about filling a constitutional post — it is an ideological battle for the soul of the nation."
Kharge accused the ruling party of following a path of "majoritarianism" and highlighted the Opposition’s commitment to justice, inclusivity, and constitutional values. "While the ruling party has chosen the path of majoritarianism, we stand firm in our dedication to justice, inclusivity, and the Constitution," he said while formally introducing Justice Reddy to Opposition leaders at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament).
The Congress president emphasized that Justice Reddy's nomination represents a united Opposition standing against what it sees as the government's erosion of democratic norms.
It is worth noting that Justice Reddy, renowned for his landmark judgments and steadfast commitment to the principles of social, economic, and political equality, was presented by Kharge as a figure who truly embodies the values of the Constitution.
He emphasized that the nomination also serves as a counter to the ruling party’s close alignment with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
A Vice President's term, which lasts for five years, became vacant when Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on July 21, the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, citing health reasons.
The Vice President is chosen by an electoral college, which includes MPs from both houses of Parliament.
