If the speculations circulating within political circles hold true, S. Abdul Nazir, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, is poised to be the National Democratic Alliance’s candidate for the Vice Presidency. This follows the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, prompting the Election Commission of India to announce the electoral schedule for the new Vice President.
The opposition coalition known as the INDIA bloc is anticipated to make a decision after the NDA finalizes its nominee, with several names already under consideration for the position. Sources indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strategically opted for a candidate from South India, specifically from a minority community, for the Vice-Presidential role.
Initially, there was a belief that the candidate could be from Bihar, with various leaders’ names emerging. Rumors suggested the position might be offered to the JD(U), an ally of the NDA led by Nitish Kumar. However, evolving political dynamics have prompted the Modi team to shift its focus.
Reports suggest a near-final decision to nominate a South Indian leader for the role, with the appointment of a candidate from a minority background viewed as a strategic move to put the INDIA bloc on the defensive. In this climate, the name of current Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer has recently gained traction.
Nazeer, hailing from Karnataka, has a background as a judge and contributed to the landmark Ayodhya verdict during his time on the Supreme Court. Since being appointed Governor of Andhra Pradesh in February 2023, he has established himself as a credible contender for the Vice Presidency.
With Droupadi Murmu representing the tribal community as President, the BJP aims to prevent the opposition from gaining ground by nominating a South Indian from a minority background for the Vice Presidency. The BJP leadership in Delhi believes this strategy could yield political benefits ahead of critical elections in Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.
Currently, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh is expected to retain his position, while the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker role may go to a leader from Tamil Nadu or West Bengal. Presently, the NDA enjoys a solid majority in the electoral college, reinforcing their confidence in securing a win for their Vice-Presidential nominee.
Modi’s plan seems designed not only to elect their candidate smoothly but also to eliminate any chance for the INDIA coalition to launch a viable challenge. Should Abdul Nazeer be finalized, he would be the first Vice President from a minority community since Hamid Ansari.
Much like M. Venkaiah Naidu, who had connections to both Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Nazeer is also poised to make history. A concluding decision is expected to be reached within the next two days.
