reddy Commends Gandhi, Raises Concerns Over Bihar Electoral Process
New Delhi – Former Supreme Court Justice B Sudershan Reddy, the INDIA bloc’s nominee for Vice President, publicly lauded Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday for his persistent advocacy for social justice and electoral fairness. Reddy specifically highlighted Gandhi’s role in prompting the Telangana government to conduct a systematic caste census.
Gandhi’s Advocacy for Caste Census
Speaking to reporters,reddy credited Gandhi with ensuring that critical issues remain at the forefront of public discourse. He quoted Rammanohar Lohia’s assertion,”jab sadak khaamosh hai,sadan awara hoti hai (when the streets are silent,the house becomes unruly),” adding,”Rahul Gandhi doesn’t allow the streets to be silent.”
Reddy explained that Gandhi’s consistent pressure lead to the Telangana government’s decision to undertake a complete caste census.
Pro Tip: Caste census data is crucial for formulating targeted policies to address social and economic inequalities.
He expressed hope that the census would be conducted systematically and not merely for superficial appearances.
Concerns Regarding Bihar’s Electoral Roll Revision
The INDIA bloc’s Vice-Presidential candidate also voiced serious concerns about the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar.He warned that the integrity of universal adult suffrage is under threat, possibly undermining the foundation of the Indian Constitution.
“The right to vote is the one and only instrument or weapon in the hands of the common man,” Reddy stated. “When attempts are made to snatch it away, then what remains in democracy?” This statement comes amid reports of irregularities and concerns about voter list manipulation during the revision process.
Telangana Caste Census and Potential Challenges
Reddy, who previously led an expert group responsible for the Telangana caste census, predicted that the findings would present notable challenges to the current ruling dispensation. He acknowledged the potential for resistance but emphasized the importance of a thorough and unbiased study.
“When the task was finished, when I was presenting that report… I said now it is going to be a major challenge to the present ruling dispensation, and I was proven right,” Reddy recounted.
Did You Know? The Telangana caste census is one of the most comprehensive attempts to quantify caste demographics in the state.
Political Context and Nomination
Earlier on Wednesday, members of the INDIA bloc convened with Reddy at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan to discuss strategy and garner support for his candidacy. The nomination of Reddy, a highly respected jurist, was officially announced by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
The nomination papers were signed by a broad coalition of INDIA bloc MPs, including Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Kharge, DMK MP tiruchi Siva, and Samajwadi Party MP Ram gopal Yadav, demonstrating a united front against the ruling party.
| Key Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Reddy’s Praise for Gandhi | August 21,2025 |
| INDIA bloc Meeting with Reddy | August 21,2025 |
| Reddy’s Nomination Announced | August 21,2025 |
The unfolding situation underscores the growing political tensions ahead of the Vice-Presidential election and the INDIA bloc’s determination to challenge the status quo. Will Reddy’s concerns about electoral integrity resonate with voters and influence the outcome of the election?
Background on India’s Vice-Presidential Election
The Vice-President of India is the second-highest office in the contry, holding a crucial role in the parliamentary system. The Vice-President serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament, and assumes the office of the President in the event of the President’s resignation, removal, or death. The election of the Vice-President is a significant event in Indian politics, ofen reflecting the balance of power between different political parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is B Sudershan Reddy? B Sudershan Reddy is a former Supreme Court Justice and the INDIA bloc’s candidate for Vice President.
- What did Reddy say about Rahul Gandhi? Reddy praised Gandhi for his advocacy for a caste census and for keeping public issues in the spotlight.
- What are the concerns regarding the Bihar electoral roll? Concerns center around potential irregularities and threats to the integrity of universal adult suffrage.
- What is the importance of the Telangana caste census? The census aims to provide data for targeted policies to address social and economic inequalities.
- What is the role of the Vice President of India? The Vice President chairs the Rajya Sabha and assumes presidential duties if needed.
We encourage you to share this article with your network, join the conversation in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Indian politics and beyond.