New Delhi: Leaders of the INDIA bloc will meet today to finalize their candidate for the upcoming vice-presidential election, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said. The meeting comes two days after the NDA named Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan as its nominee for the post.
Kharge confirmed the meeting, saying, “We will hold discussions this evening to decide on our candidate.” The opposition is expected to take a call on whether to field a joint candidate or not.
The vice-presidential election is scheduled for September 9, following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21 citing health reasons. The last date for filing nominations is August 19, with scrutiny on August 22.
Radhakrishnan’s nomination has drawn mixed reactions from the opposition. Congress MP Manickam Tagore highlighted his RSS background, saying it reflects the BJP’s ideology. However, Sanjay Raut of the Uddhav Sena termed him a “balanced personality” and said the final decision would come after the meeting.
Today’s discussion is also likely to touch on the recent disruption of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and the bloc’s floor strategy, leaders indicated.
The INDIA bloc’s move will be crucial with the deadline for nominations just a day away.
