INDIA Bloc Names Former SC Judge as VP Candidate
The opposition's INDIA bloc has named former Supreme Court judge Sudershan Reddy as its consensus candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election. The announcement positions the contest against the NDA's nominee, CP Radhakrishnan, as what Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has termed an "ideological battle."
Distinguished and Unanimous Choice
Justice Reddy has a long and distinguished judicial career. Before his tenure at the Supreme Court, from which he retired in 2011, he served as the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. Announcing the nomination, Kharge emphasized that the decision was taken unanimously by all parties in the alliance, calling it a "big achievement for democracy." He highlighted Justice Reddy's credentials as a champion of social and political justice.
Strategic Nomination
The selection of Justice Reddy is also being viewed as a strategic political move. Sources suggest the choice is intended to put pressure on the NDA's allies from Andhra Pradesh, namely the TDP and Jana Sena. The nomination also satisfies the preferences of other key alliance members; the DMK was keen on a candidate from South India, while the Trinamool Congress had advocated for an apolitical figure.
Reacting to his nomination, Justice Reddy expressed confidence and appealed to all parties, including those in the NDA, for their support. He stated that as the opposition's candidate, he believes he represents "60% of India."
