The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has formally intensified its preparations for the election of India’s next Vice President. In a crucial meeting held on Thursday at the Parliament complex, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President JP Nadda were unanimously authorized to select the alliance’s candidate.
The meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, was attended by Home Minister Amit Shah, JD(U) leader Lalan Singh, Shrikant Shinde from Shiv Sena’s Shinde faction, TDP’s Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, and LJP (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed the unanimous decision after the discussions.
The vice-presidential post fell vacant on July 21 when Jagdeep Dhankhar abruptly resigned, citing health reasons. His unexpected departure has sparked intense speculation in political circles over who will succeed him. Several names are being discussed, though BJP’s surprise pick of Dhankhar in the previous election has reminded observers to expect the unexpected.
Potential NDA Contenders
Manoj Sinha
Currently serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha is a senior BJP leader and former Minister of State for Railways. Widely credited for stabilizing the region after the abrogation of Article 370, Sinha recently completed his five-year term. His tenure ended in the shadow of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, but his proximity to PM Modi keeps him in strong contention.
VK Saxena
Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, with a background in the corporate sector, has made headlines for blocking several decisions of the Aam Aadmi Party-led Delhi government, demonstrating loyalty and alignment with the Centre. Political insiders believe he may be poised for a higher constitutional role.
Nitish Kumar
Bihar Chief Minister and senior JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar is also being mentioned as a possible contender, though such speculation remains unconfirmed. With questions over his health and suggestions from some allies that he should move to national politics, political observers note hints from former JD(U) leaders that Kumar may be ready to pass the baton to a new generation in Bihar.
Harivansh Narayan Singh
The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh Narayan Singh, also from JD(U), is seen as a reliable and seasoned figure. Since taking the post in 2020, he has been praised for maintaining balance in the Upper House and enjoys the trust of both PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
Political analysts believe the NDA’s choice will likely balance political strategy, social representation, and experience. All eyes are now on PM Modi’s final decision. Meanwhile, the opposition is expected to start deliberations on its own nominee soon, potentially setting the stage for a high-profile contest. However, with a clear majority in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the NDA is seen to have the upper hand.