B Sudershan Reddy Highlights Voting Rights and Caste Census in Vice-Presidential Nomination

B Sudershan Reddy's Remarks on Voting Rights

B Sudershan Reddy, a former judge of the Supreme Court, has been nominated as the Vice-Presidential candidate for the INDIA alliance. He praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his ability to mobilize public opinion and successfully advocate for a systematic caste census in Telangana. Reddy expressed concern over the situation in Bihar, where he believes universal adult suffrage is under serious threat, posing a significant risk to the Constitution.

During a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar, Reddy underscored the critical nature of voting rights, referring to it as the 'only weapon' available to the common citizen. He questioned the essence of democracy if this right is compromised, stating, 'The universal adult suffrage is facing a grave challenge. There can be no greater threat to the Constitution than the current crisis in Bihar.'

Praise for Rahul Gandhi and Caste Census Insights

Reddy referenced Rammanohar Lohia's quote, 'when the streets are silent, the house becomes unruly,' commending Rahul Gandhi for ensuring that public discourse remains active. He noted that Gandhi's efforts to advocate for a caste census in Telangana have become a hallmark of his political journey.

Leading an expert group on the Telangana caste census, Reddy anticipates that it will pose a significant challenge to the current government. He hopes the findings will be thorough and not merely for show, stating, 'When I presented the report, I indicated it would challenge the ruling party, and I believe I was correct.'

Political Journey and Upcoming Elections

Earlier, members of the INDIA alliance convened with Reddy in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan to discuss his nomination. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge introduced Reddy as a distinguished jurist, with support from notable figures including Sonia Gandhi and various MPs.

Reddy shared that a fellow Supreme Court judge questioned his decision to enter politics, to which he responded that his legal career, which began in 1971, is ongoing, and this new challenge is part of that journey. He clarified that the Vice Presidency is not a political role.

Reddy will face off against the NDA's candidate, CP Radhakrishnan, in an election set for September 9. This contest is anticipated to be highly competitive as both sides seek to garner support. The election follows the resignation of the current Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, due to health issues.