In Patna on Thursday, B. Sudarshan Reddy, the joint candidate for Vice President from the INDIA alliance, met with leaders from various party groups and gained their support. His visit highlights the importance of the upcoming Vice Presidential election, which many see as a test of India’s democratic values.
During a media chat in Patna, Reddy emphasized that this election isn’t just about one position. “It’s a fight to protect democracy, justice, and the Constitution,” he said. Reddy also spoke about Bihar’s rich history, highlighting that social justice began here 2,000 years ago.
When asked why a retired judge is stepping into politics, Reddy explained he spent 50 years in the judiciary, where he learned the importance of safeguarding constitutional principles — values he feels are now under threat.
Reddy described his journey in Indian democracy, which started in 1971, as ongoing. “This election continues my long democratic journey. I ask for everyone’s support,” he added.
He shared a personal story about carrying the Indian Constitution for over five decades. Holding up the book, he said, “When Rahul Gandhi saw this with me, I told him I’ve been carrying it for 52 years. The Constitution is my guiding light, and it should remain India’s guiding star too.”
Upon arriving in Patna, Reddy was welcomed warmly by Bihar Congress leaders such as Krishna Allavaru, Rajesh Ram, and Shakeel Ahmed, along with key figures from the INDIA alliance, including Mukesh Sahani.
The alliance sees Reddy’s candidacy as a symbol of democratic resistance, emphasizing that this election is a chance to defend the core values of India’s Constitution from political domination.
Tejashwi Yadav, a senior leader of the RJD and former Deputy Chief Minister, also expressed full support for Reddy. He sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing them of capturing all national institutions and trying to end democracy altogether.
Tejashwi questioned the recent resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, suggesting it was influenced by pressure from the central government. “If Dhankhar resigned quietly, it shows the government is using force to silence opposition,” he said.
He also claimed that the Election Commission has been compromised and now echoes the language of the ruling BJP. “Bihar is called the mother of democracy, and this Vice Presidential election is vital for protecting our democratic values,” Tejashwi added.
This election is being watched closely as a crucial moment for India’s democracy, with opposition leaders emphasizing the need to stand firm against any attempts to undermine the Constitution.
