With the deadline for filing nominations for the Vice President of India fast approaching, discussions within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have intensified over who will be its official candidate. As per the election schedule, nominations must be submitted by August 21, with the election and results expected on September 9.
The Vice Presidential election is conducted through votes cast by members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Given the current parliamentary composition, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holds a significant advantage. The BJP enjoys a majority in the Rajya Sabha, and several nominated members have formally aligned themselves with the party, further bolstering its strength.
According to sources, BJP’s allies have left the decision of selecting the Vice Presidential nominee entirely in the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President J.P. Nadda. It is widely believed within the party that whoever gets PM Modi’s endorsement is virtually guaranteed to be elected.
Sheshadri Chari’s Name Gathers Momentum
Amid rising speculation, one name is quietly gaining traction — Sheshadri Chari, a veteran with deep roots in the RSS and a long-standing association with the BJP. While no official confirmation has been made, party insiders suggest that Chari could be the surprise pick.
In a conversation with Navbharat Times Online, a senior BJP functionary, speaking on the condition of anonymity, hinted at a possible unexpected decision by the Prime Minister. “This is BJP—expect the unexpected. Faces often emerge from places people don’t anticipate,” the leader said, adding, “Sheshadri Chari could be India’s next Vice President.”
Who is Sheshadri Chari?
Sheshadri Chari is no stranger to the ideological corridors of Indian politics. A seasoned RSS member, Chari has held various influential roles within the BJP and the wider Sangh Parivar. He currently serves as a member of the BJP’s National Executive and has previously served as the Office Secretary of the party.
Chari was also the Editor of “Organiser”, the English mouthpiece of the RSS, and is widely respected for his knowledge of foreign policy and national security issues. Over the years, he has regularly represented the BJP’s strategic viewpoint on key matters involving China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean region on national platforms and TV debates.
His name being considered for the Vice President’s office could also give the BJP greater flexibility in selecting a new party president, possibly moving away from a strictly RSS background to a more politically dynamic candidate.
Decision Expected by August 20
With the nomination window closing soon, the BJP leadership is expected to finalize and announce its official candidate by August 20. If chosen, Sheshadri Chari’s elevation would be seen as a strategic move that strengthens both the party’s ideological base and its intellectual presence in India’s top constitutional offices.
As the suspense builds, all eyes are on PM Modi and J.P. Nadda, whose decision is likely to shape the next phase of India’s political leadership.