MPs Vote to Elect India's Next Vice President
Members of Parliament are voting to elect India's 15th Vice President in a contest between the ruling NDA's nominee, Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan, and the opposition INDIA bloc's candidate, former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy. The election was necessitated by the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar. The NDA is seen to have a numerical advantage in the electoral college, which comprises 781 MPs from both houses. Several parties, including the BJD, BRS, and SAD, have decided to abstain from voting.
Unpacked:
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from the Vice Presidency citing health reasons, which led to the need for a fresh election to fill the vacancy.
CP Radhakrishnan is a seasoned BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, former Lok Sabha MP, and experienced administrator who served as Governor of Jharkhand and Maharashtra. He has held various party and parliamentary roles, including key committee chairmanships and organizational responsibilities.
Parties such as the BJD, BRS, and SAD often abstain from high-profile votes to either remain neutral, express dissatisfaction with both candidates, or avoid aligning too closely with either the ruling NDA or opposition INDIA bloc, reflecting their regional or strategic interests.
The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office, serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), and acts as President in the latter's absence. The role is crucial for legislative proceedings and constitutional continuity.