The suspense over the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) vice presidential nominee could end today, with reports suggesting the ruling coalition may declare its candidate’s name on Tuesday. However, no official confirmation has come from the government or its allies. The election was necessitated by the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the post.
In a recent meeting, the NDA entrusted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda with the responsibility of finalizing the candidate. According to media reports, the announcement may be made today. The decision follows an August 7 meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, after which Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the final call would rest with PM Modi and Nadda. The vice presidential election is scheduled for September 9.
Following Dhankhar’s resignation, several names have been speculated, including Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman and JD(U) leader Harivansh Singh, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat. None of these names have been officially confirmed.
According to PTI sources, the opposition’s INDIA bloc is expected to field a joint candidate. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is reportedly reaching out to opposition parties to discuss possible nominees and build consensus. Kharge has emphasized that the alliance should send a strong political message by contesting the election, regardless of the outcome.
However, some members within the opposition believe INDIA should announce its candidate only after the BJP reveals its nominee.