NEW DELHI, Aug 19: The Opposition INDIA bloc on Tuesday announced former Supreme Court judge B Sudhershan Reddy as its joint candidate for the upcoming Vice-Presidential elections, setting the stage for a contest against the NDA nominee.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge made the announcement, saying the decision was taken unanimously by all parties in the alliance. “All INDIA bloc parties have decided to field a common candidate. I am happy that all opposition parties have agreed to one name. It is a big achievement for democracy,” Kharge said.
Justice Reddy, a retired Supreme Court judge, also served as the first Lokayukta of Goa. His nomination reflects the Opposition’s attempt to project a consensus candidate with a background in law and public accountability.
The Vice-Presidential election is expected to see a direct contest between Justice Reddy and the NDA’s nominee C P Radhakrishnan, the Maharashtra Governor and senior BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, whose candidature was announced on Monday.
With the NDA enjoying a clear majority in the electoral college comprising members of both Houses of Parliament, Radhakrishnan’s win is considered likely. However, the INDIA bloc’s decision to field a common candidate indicates its intent to mount a symbolic fight and underline Opposition unity.
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