The discussion about who will be India’s next Vice President began the day Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned. The I.N.D.I.A. alliance has not yet revealed its candidate for the post.
Meanwhile, the NDA is likely to announce its nominee on Tuesday, though neither the government nor its allies have made any official statement. In a recent NDA meeting, the responsibility of choosing the candidate was given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president J.P. Nadda.
When will the Vice President election be held?
According to media reports, the NDA may announce its candidate on Tuesday, August 12. Earlier, on August 7, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired an NDA meeting. The election for the Vice President’s post will take place on August 9.
Who are the possible names?
After Dhankhar’s resignation, several names are being discussed for the next Vice President’s post. These include Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman and JD(U) leader Harivansh Singh, Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat.
Who will be the opposition’s candidate?
According to a PTI report, sources say the I.N.D.I.A. alliance will field a joint candidate. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is reaching out to opposition parties to discuss possible names and build a consensus.
How is a vice president elected?
The Vice President of India is elected by all members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, including nominated MPs. Together, both Houses have 781 members, so a candidate needs at least 391 votes to win if everyone participates. With around 422 MPs, the NDA currently holds a clear numerical advantage.
According to the Election Commission’s schedule, the poll will be held on 9 September. Nominations can be filed until 21 August, scrutiny of papers will take place on 22 August, and candidates can withdraw their names until 25 August.