The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary Board assembled in New Delhi today, focusing national attention on the impending choice for the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) Vice-Presidential candidate. This high-level meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and BJP President J.P. Nadda, comes at a critical juncture following the unexpected resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2025.
Dhankhar’s Sudden Exit Sets the Stage
Dhankhar’s resignation, officially cited as due to health reasons, sparked waves of speculation regarding possible internal disagreements and party strategy. While he attributed his departure to well-being concerns, political columnists and opposition figures hint at a deeper rift, adding suspense to the NDA’s selection process for this constitutional post.
Who Will Be NDA’s Candidate? Caste, Community, and RSS Dynamics
BJP insiders reveal the party’s leadership is weighing contenders who not only maintain strong ties to the BJP-RSS ecosystem but also strategically represent key social blocs. Those reportedly shortlisted include:
- Acharya Devvrat (Gujarat Governor), a prominent Jat leader, favored to strengthen support among agrarian communities.
- Thawarchand Gehlot (Karnataka Governor), whose backward caste credentials could appeal to wider constituencies.
- Om Mathur (Sikkim Governor), and
- Manoj Sinha (J&K LG), valued for their organizational experience and loyalty.
The final decision rests with Modi and Nadda, and is expected to reflect a careful balance of caste, community, and ideological factors, with the endorsement of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh considered crucial.
Opposition Gears Up: INDIA Bloc Responds
In counterpoint, the opposition INDIA bloc is scheduled to meet on August 18, aiming to unite around its own Vice-Presidential candidate and present a credible challenge. With NDA’s clear numerical edge in the parliamentary electoral college, any contest is likely to be symbolic, showcasing opposition unity and raising the stakes for future alliances.
Show of Strength and Political Theatre
All NDA chief ministers and deputy chief ministers have been summoned to Delhi for the nomination filing on August 21, reflecting the alliance’s commitment to a united front. The coordinated strategy signals not just preparedness for the election, but a broader message of organizational discipline and control.newindianexpress+1
What’s Next?
With strategic discussions underway and the nation watching, official announcements regarding the NDA’s Vice-Presidential candidate are anticipated soon. The election is set for September 9, 2025, and all signs point to a result shaped by both internal party dynamics and larger coalition arithmetic.
Stay tuned to this blog for real-time updates and in-depth analysis as the NDA moves closer to declaring its candidate and the Vice-Presidential race intensifies in India’s evolving political landscape.
