New Delhi, August 21 – The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday appointed two senior officers of the rank of Additional Secretary as Observers to oversee the upcoming Vice Presidential election scheduled for September 9.
The polls will witness a direct contest between Justice (Retd.) B Sudershan Reddy, backed by the Opposition INDIA bloc, and the NDA’s nominee, C P Radhakrishnan. The last date for filing nominations is August 21, while withdrawals can be made until August 25. The post of Vice President fell vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on July 21, citing health reasons.
The ECI has named Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and D. Anandan, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, as election Observers. Nitin Kumar Shivdas Khade, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Rural Development, has been kept on the reserve list.
Earlier in the day, Opposition nominee Justice (Retd.) B Sudershan Reddy filed his nomination papers in the presence of Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi. Calling it a moment of honour, Reddy pledged to uphold impartiality, dignity, and commitment to the Constitution if elected.
Reflecting on his journey, Reddy stated, “My life in public service as a judge of the Supreme Court, a student of law, and a citizen rooted in democratic traditions has taught me that India’s true strength lies in the dignity of every individual, constitutional morality, and unity in diversity. This election is not merely about one individual.”
The stage is now set for a closely watched contest that will test political alliances ahead of the crucial Vice Presidential polls.
Vice Presidential Polls: ECI Appoints Observers as Contest Heats Up Between Reddy and Radhakrishnan
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