National / Election News
11 August
Tv10punjab
The opposition parties under the INDIA alliance are preparing to put forward a joint candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election. According to sources, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is in touch with alliance partners to identify possible names and build consensus.
There is a strong sentiment within the bloc that the opposition must send a clear political message by participating in the contest, regardless of the outcome. Leaders believe that backing out would weaken the alliance’s image, even if victory is unlikely given the NDA’s numerical advantage in Parliament.
While there has been no formal or structured discussion yet, behind-the-scenes talks are ongoing among INDIA alliance members about potential candidates. Kharge is personally reaching out to different parties to arrive at a name acceptable to all.
Congress sources say there is already broad agreement among the parties that a united front is essential for the Vice Presidential polls. However, a section of the opposition feels that the candidate should be announced only after the BJP declares its nominee, allowing the alliance to tailor its choice accordingly.
The move is seen as part of the INDIA bloc’s broader strategy to showcase unity ahead of future electoral battles, including upcoming state elections. The choice of candidate will be crucial in sending the right political message — balancing experience, regional representation, and political symbolism.
Though the Vice President’s post is largely a constitutional role, the election carries significant political weight. The INDIA alliance aims to use this opportunity to demonstrate that it can act together, even in contests where it faces steep odds. Discussions are expected to intensify in the coming days as the BJP readies its own strategy for the high-profile post.