Will B. Sudershan Reddy, INDIA bloc's Vice-Presidential Candidate, File His Nomination Today?

New Delhi, Aug 21 (NationPress) The nominee of the INDIA bloc for the Vice-Presidential election, former Supreme Court Judge Justice B. Sudershan Reddy, is poised to submit his nomination papers on Thursday.

The election is slated for September 9.

The declaration of Justice Reddy's candidacy was made on Tuesday by Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, in New Delhi following a meeting of the Opposition alliance. During the announcement on Wednesday, Kharge stated, “This Vice-Presidential election transcends the mere filling of a constitutional position; it represents an ideological struggle for the essence of our nation.”

Kharge criticized the ruling party for its trajectory of “majoritarianism” and highlighted the Opposition's commitment to uphold justice, inclusivity, and constitutional principles.

“While the ruling party has embraced a path of majoritarianism, we remain steadfast in our dedication to justice, inclusivity, and the Constitution,” he asserted while formally introducing Justice Reddy to Opposition leaders at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament).

The Congress President underscored that Justice Reddy's nomination signifies a unified Opposition challenging what they perceive as the government's degradation of democratic values.

“We present his candidacy with immense pride and conviction,” Kharge expressed, noting that this reflects a shared ideological stance across various parties.

Justice Reddy, renowned for his landmark rulings and unwavering dedication to the principles of social, economic, and political equality, was presented by Kharge as a personification of constitutional values.

Kharge also indicated that this nomination serves as a counter to the ruling party's affiliations with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Kharge painted a concerning picture of the current functioning of Parliament, alleging that discussions are often sidestepped, bills are hastily passed without thorough evaluation, and investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax Department, and CBI are misused to suppress dissent.

Referring to the recent Monsoon Session, he labeled it a “dark chapter” in India's parliamentary history.

Arguing that the integrity and impartiality of the Rajya Sabha have been compromised, Kharge posited that Justice Reddy's ascension as Vice-President and Chairman of the Upper House could restore fairness and reinforce the parliamentary traditions once upheld by leaders like S. Radhakrishnan.

“Over the past 11 years, the ruling party has not only marginalized the Opposition but also hindered parliamentary operations. Even with a minority government, they persist in enacting anti-people laws by exploiting their numbers. The Speaker's role in muffling opposition voices has been deeply concerning,” Kharge lamented, switching to Hindi to emphasize his point.

In an appeal to all Members of Parliament, Kharge urged backing for Justice Reddy's nomination, depicting him as a leader whose life exemplifies fairness, compassion, and citizen empowerment—qualities crucial in today's political landscape.

As the Vice-Presidential election approaches, Justice Reddy's nomination has set the stage for a contest that Opposition leaders describe as not merely a competition between candidates but a clash of divergent visions for India's democratic future.