INDIA Bloc’s united move sets up contest against NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan, but BJP appears to hold the numbers advantage.
Opposition Announces Candidate
The Opposition’s INDIA bloc has nominated former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy as its candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election. The announcement was made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge after several rounds of discussion with alliance partners.
This move ensures that the BJP does not get a walkover in the contest, even though the NDA appears numerically stronger.
BJP Holds the Numbers
The Vice President is elected by an electoral college of 782 MPs from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. A minimum of 392 votes is required to win.
- NDA strength in Lok Sabha: 293 seats
- NDA strength in Rajya Sabha: 133 seats
With these numbers, the BJP-backed candidate CP Radhakrishnan looks set to secure the post comfortably. A major upset could only occur if NDA allies rebel, which currently seems unlikely.
Why the Opposition Forced a Contest
According to political observers, the INDIA bloc’s decision is less about victory and more about sending a political message of unity.
- It prevents the BJP from winning uncontested.
- It highlights Opposition solidarity at a time when the alliance is cornering the government over alleged poll irregularities.
- It keeps the narrative alive ahead of future national elections.
Andhra-Telangana Subplot
The choice of B Sudershan Reddy from Andhra Pradesh adds an interesting twist:
- The BJP had earlier nominated a Tamil Nadu face, putting DMK in a tricky position.
- Now, TDP, YSRCP, and BRS face pressure on whether to back the NDA candidate or support the Opposition’s nominee, who hails from their region.
This could test regional loyalties and alliances in the South.
The Bigger Picture
While the NDA appears firmly in control, the Opposition’s move ensures the Vice Presidential election will not be a one-sided affair.
The symbolic contest allows the INDIA bloc to demonstrate cohesion, rally its base, and remind voters that it remains a serious challenger to the BJP, even in tough electoral battles.
The Vice Presidential battle may already look decided, but for the Opposition, the fight is about optics, unity, and keeping the political momentum alive.
Also Read : Tamil Nadu Factor Heats Up Vice Presidential Election: Opposition Hits Trinamool Roadblock
