With the Vice Presidential election set for September 9, BJP evaluates top governors and party loyalists for the key constitutional post.
BJP Finalising Vice-President Candidate
With less than a month left for the Vice Presidential election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively finalising its nominee. The key probable picks are:
- Thawarchand Gehlot – Karnataka Governor
- Arif Mohammad Khan – Bihar Governor
- VK Saxena – Delhi Lieutenant Governor
Other names under discussion include RSS ideologue Seshadri Chari and current Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, though BJP sources emphasise the nominee will strongly align with the party and RSS ideology.
Why the Poll Was Necessitated
The election follows the surprise resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, citing health reasons. Sources suggest deeper issues, including potential mistrust between Dhankhar and the Centre. His term was originally set to end in August 2027.
Dhankhar reportedly made independent decisions without consulting the government, notably during the impeachment proceedings of Justice Yashwant Varma, which contributed to his resignation.
BJP Strategy and Upcoming Plans
- The BJP-led NDA has authorised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President J.P. Nadda to select the ruling bloc’s candidate.
- A mega meeting of NDA leaders is planned next week as a show of strength ahead of the election.
- All NDA MPs are summoned for a Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday, coinciding with the second phase of the Monsoon Session.
Election Process Overview
- The Vice President is elected by members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, including nominated Upper House members.
- In a mid-term poll, the winner gets a full five-year term.
- Eligibility criteria include:
- Indian citizenship
- Minimum 35 years of age
- Qualification for Rajya Sabha election
- No holding of any office of profit under the government
The BJP is expected to announce its candidate soon, with a strong emphasis on loyalty to party and ideological alignment, ensuring stability in the Rajya Sabha.
Also Read : Vice Presidential Election Set for September 9 After Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns
