The voting for the Vice Presidential election is scheduled for September 9, presenting a pivotal moment in the political landscape. With the incumbent Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, having resigned due to health concerns, the nation is poised to elect a new leader. Both the ruling NDA and the opposition India bloc are actively maneuvering to secure the necessary support for their respective candidates.
This election holds particular significance as it marks the 17th Vice Presidential election. The electoral process is governed by an electoral college composed of members from both houses of Parliament, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
**The Candidates:**
The primary contenders are CP Radhakrishnan, a senior BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, and B. Sudarshan Reddy, a former judge of the Supreme Court, representing distinct backgrounds and political affiliations.
CP Radhakrishnan, the Governor of Maharashtra, is a recognized figure within the BJP, playing a role in the party’s efforts to expand its presence in South India. B. Sudarshan Reddy’s reputation for impartiality and integrity in the judiciary has garnered him respect and support from various quarters.
**The Electoral College and Voting Procedure:**
The electoral college comprises members of both houses of Parliament, including nominated members. State assemblies are not involved in the voting process. With a total of 782 MPs in the combined houses (excluding any vacancies), each MP’s vote holds equal value.
The election follows the principle of proportional representation using a single transferable vote (STV). Voters indicate their preferences by ranking the candidates in order. A candidate must secure more than half of the total valid votes to win. The Election Commission oversees the election, and a returning officer, usually a senior parliamentary official, is appointed.
**Strategic Alliances and Support:**
The NDA, led by the BJP, is expected to have an advantage due to its majority in the Lok Sabha, with the potential backing of several regional parties. CP Radhakrishnan is the NDA’s candidate. The India bloc, composed of various opposition parties, has united in support of B. Sudarshan Reddy. The support for each candidate is a reflection of the current political dynamics.
**Political Dynamics:**
Ahead of the election, the BJP organized a workshop for its MPs. The NDA has been emphasizing vigilance among its MPs to prevent any advantage for the opposition. The opposition has been holding meetings to foster unity among its MPs.
**The Path to Victory:**
The NDA is seen as having an edge in the election. The majority mark is 392. The NDA requires the support of 392 members to win the election. If there is no cross-voting, then NDA is likely to win the election.
The outcome of the Vice Presidential election will shape the future of Indian governance.