The political tussle surrounding the upcoming Vice Presidential election is heating up. The ruling NDA alliance has officially announced Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan as its candidate, while the opposition’s INDIA bloc is still deliberating over its choice. Speculation is rife that the opposition may announce its candidate on Tuesday.
According to sources, the INDIA bloc is considering former ISRO scientist Mylswamy Annadurai, famously known as “Moon Man of India,” as its possible nominee. Annadurai, who led the Chandrayaan-1 mission, has been widely respected for his contribution to India’s space program. However, reports suggest that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has yet to give its consent to his name. Besides Annadurai, several other names are also under discussion within the opposition camp.
A crucial meeting of opposition leaders has been scheduled at 12:30 PM on Tuesday at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, where a final announcement on the candidate is expected. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh clarified on social media that the meeting has been called as a gathering of opposition parties, not just the INDIA bloc, in order to give parties like AAP the option to participate.
Meanwhile, the opposition has launched a united front against the Election Commission, alleging large-scale vote manipulation and irregularities. Parties such as the Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, and DMK have joined forces with the INDIA bloc on this issue. The controversy over recruitment examinations in Bihar has also added fuel to the opposition’s growing unity. Political analysts believe this consolidated stance could reflect in the Vice Presidential polls as well, despite earlier reluctance from the Samajwadi Party.
Although some opposition parties, including the RJD and Samajwadi Party, initially raised objections to contesting the election, they have now agreed that participation is politically significant even with limited numbers in Parliament. Sources suggest Kharge will continue to hold consultations with leaders who could not attend Tuesday’s meeting, aiming to build consensus around a single candidate.
When asked about Annadurai’s possible nomination, a senior opposition leader confirmed that his name is among those being seriously considered, but added that the TMC is yet to take a final call.