NEW DELHI: The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is apparently facing an uphill task in reaching consensus over a candidate for the upcoming vice-presidential election. With the Election Commission having initiated the poll process and the Opposition strategising to field a joint nominee, the election promises a high-stakes contest.
According to sources within the BJP, the party is currently deliberating over potential names that meet a broad spectrum of criteria, especially those aligned with the suggestions reportedly made by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and also reflect the BJP’s strategic priorities.
While shortlisting of potential candidates is said to be discreetly underway within the BJP, formal consultations with NDA allies are expected to take place between August 8 and 10, during a scheduled meeting.
However, insiders admit that the real challenge lies in identifying a candidate who balances ideological commitment to the party and the RSS, while also maintaining also a strong rapport with NDA partners, possesses deep knowledge of House procedures, and demonstrates political maturity.
Among the names currently circulating in internal discussions are several Governors—including the Governors of Sikkim, Karnataka, and Bihar—as well as former Goa Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai. With his Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarathi Parishad background and favourable impression among the RSS, Pillai is a former Kerala BJP chief and has penned over 150 books.
There is also a possibility that incumbent deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, may be nominated as candidate in the vice-presidential polls owing to his experience of officiating the House and journalistic background. However, his political affiliation with NDA-ally JD(U) may become an impediment to his candidature as the BJP looks to field its own candidate.
“If the party springs a surprise by nominating a woman again for the second-highest constitutional post in the country, especially one from the OBC or SC community, it would certainly be an added advantage for the party’s electoral politics,” said a senior BJP insider.