With former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation now officially notified, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has commenced the procedural groundwork for electing his successor, and the political manoeuvring on both sides of the aisle has already begun.
Sources indicate that the election for the Vice President is expected to take place in September, although the official schedule is yet to be released. The Election Commission has initiated preparations under Article 324 of the Constitution, which mandates the Commission to oversee the conduct of such elections. The process will be governed by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952, and the rules established in 1974.
ECI starts preparations, formal poll schedule awaited
According to the ECI, certain administrative steps must be completed before the poll dates are formally announced. These include the constitution of the Electoral College, comprising elected and nominated members of both Houses of Parliament, the appointment of the Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officer, and the compilation and dissemination of relevant material from past vice-presidential polls.
Officials have indicated that the Commission is focused on finalising these elements before making the election programme public.
NDA weighs regional leaders for Vice President role
Within the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), consultations around potential candidates are expected to begin once Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his foreign trip. Sources withing the ruling party said the BJP leadership will initially prepare an internal shortlist of prospective nominees.
The emphasis, they said, would be on leaders with significant legislative experience—especially those capable of effectively presiding over proceedings in the Rajya Sabha. There is a strong possibility that the NDA’s nominee may hail from South India, West Bengal, or the Northeast.
“Some of the names under discussion have served long years in the legislature and could help run the House smoothly and efficiently,” one source familiar with the process said.
Opposition scrambles to find a united face
Meanwhile, the Opposition has also sprung into action. According to Congress sources, efforts are underway to rally support for a joint candidate who could symbolise Opposition unity and present a credible challenge to the NDA nominee.
Despite being at a numerical disadvantage, the Opposition parties are said to be viewing the Vice Presidential election as an important political and ideological battle. “A search is on for a candidate who can represent the unity and thinking of the Opposition,” a source said.
Discussions are ongoing among Congress and other Opposition outfits to finalise a name who can mount a symbolic yet effective contest.
As the NDA considers strategic picks from underrepresented regions and the Opposition seeks a consensus candidate, the upcoming Vice Presidential election is shaping up to be a politically charged contest, even if its outcome may already be numerically tilted in favour of the ruling alliance.
