INDIA Bloc to Decide VP Candidate Amid NDA's Radhakrishnan Nomination

In a significant political development, leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) are poised to meet virtually on Monday to finalize their Vice Presidential candidate. This decision directly follows the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) selection of CP Radhakrishnan, the current Maharashtra Governor, as their Vice Presidential nominee.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Radhakrishnan earlier in the day in the national capital, extending commendations for his service. Modi expressed optimism about Radhakrishnan's candidacy in a post on X, emphasizing the veteran BJP leader's extensive public service record. BJP President JP Nadda had revealed Radhakrishnan's nomination on Sunday, with Vice Presidential elections scheduled for September 9.

Radhakrishnan has a robust political background, having served as Governor in various capacities and previously representing Coimbatore in the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, Congress has criticized Radhakrishnan's selection, labeling him an 'RSS man.' The Vice Presidential role, governed by the Indian Constitution, will be decided through an electoral college comprising parliamentarians from both houses.

(With inputs from agencies.)