New Delhi: Opposition INDIA bloc’s Vice-Presidential nominee and former Supreme Court judge, B. Sudarshan Reddy, on Thursday filed his nomination papers for the upcoming election, calling the moment an honour and pledging to perform the role with impartiality, dignity, and steadfast commitment if elected.
Reddy submitted his nomination in the presence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.
In a statement after filing, Justice (Retd.) Reddy said, “Today, I had the honour of filing my nomination papers for the office of the Vice President of India as the joint candidate of the Opposition parties. I do so with a deep sense of humility, responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the values enshrined in our Constitution.”
Reflecting on his career and principles, he added, “My life in public service — as a judge of the Supreme Court, a student of law, and a citizen rooted in the democratic traditions of this Republic — has taught me that India’s true strength lies in the dignity of every individual, the protection of constitutional morality, and the unity in our diversity. This election is not merely about one individual.”
Justice Reddy emphasised that his candidature represents a broader democratic vision. “It is about reaffirming the idea of India as envisaged by our founders — an India where Parliament functions with integrity, dissent is respected, and institutions serve the people with independence and fairness.”
Outlining his commitment if elected, he said, “The Vice President, as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, bears the responsibility of upholding the highest traditions of parliamentary democracy. If elected, I pledge to perform this role with impartiality, dignity, and a steadfast commitment to dialogue and decorum.”
Expressing gratitude to the Opposition alliance and citizens, Justice Reddy concluded, “I am deeply grateful to the leaders of the Opposition parties for reposing their trust in me and to the countless citizens who inspire this collective pursuit of justice, equality, and harmony. With faith in our Constitution and hope in our people, I embark on this journey. May our democratic spirit continue to guide us all.”
The Vice-Presidential election will see a direct contest between Justice Reddy, backed by the INDIA bloc, and NDA’s nominee C. P. Radhakrishnan.
The Election Commission has announced that polling will take place on September 9, with counting on the same day. The last date for filing nominations is August 21, while withdrawals are allowed until August 25.
The Vice President’s post became vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, July 21, citing health reasons.
The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of MPs from both houses of Parliament. The election is governed by Articles 64 and 68 of the Constitution and notified under the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952.
As per Article 66(1) of the Constitution, the Vice President is elected by proportional representation through a single transferable vote, with voting conducted by secret ballot.
