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In an exclusive interaction with CNN-News18, Reddy said that the Vice-Presidential election is not a battle between political parties but between individuals.
Former Supreme Court Judge Sudershan Reddy (File Photo)
INDIA Bloc Vice President candidate Sudarshan Reddy exuded confidence regarding his victory in the upcoming elections, stating that the next time he faces CNN-News18 for an interview, it will be as the Vice President of India.
In an exclusive interaction with CNN-News18, Reddy said that the Vice-Presidential election is not a battle between political parties but between individuals, since Members of Parliament and not parties cast their votes.
The former Supreme Court judge, who is contesting against NDA’s candidate C Radhakrishnan, said, “Next time, you (News18) will interview me as the Vice President. MPs will decide who is better suited for the post, and I am confident of receiving support from across party lines.”
The INDIA bloc candidate argued that the choice before MPs is one of principle, not political alignment.
“Those who believe in social justice and the values of the Constitution will support me. I do not believe that MPs from Andhra Pradesh or elsewhere will simply vote along alliance lines. Leaders are mature and will take considered decisions,” he added.
Calling the election a genuine contest and not a mere symbolic fight, Reddy said that the outcome would reflect the independent judgment of parliamentarians.
Confident of broad backing, he concluded with a bold assertion, “I will win this election, and next time, you will be interviewing me as the Vice President of India.”
Notably, Sudarshan Reddy comes from Andhra Pradesh and the MPs political parties like TDP and YSRCP will hold importance in the upcoming Vice Presidential election.
However, TDP, which is part of NDA, and YSRCP have announced their support for NDA’s pick, CP Radhakrishnan.
CP Radhakrishnan Vs Sudershan Reddy
The stage is set for the Vice-Presidential election in which the ruling BJP-led NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan will face the INDIA bloc’s B Sudershan Reddy.
The government’s efforts to take the opposition on board for a unanimous Vice Presidential election have failed, with the INDIA bloc fielding Reddy, described as one of “India’s most distinguished and progressive jurists.”
Members of Parliament from both Houses — Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha — comprise the electoral college for the Vice-Presidential elections. At present, the strength of Parliament stands at 787, including both Houses. A candidate requires at least 394 votes to be elected as the next Vice President of India.
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