As the Vice Presidential election on September 9th approaches, the opposition INDIA bloc is actively engaged in discussions to finalize its candidate. A meeting was held today, August 18, 2025, to decide on the nomination. The alliance aims to field a candidate who can highlight the ideological contrast with the ruling NDA.

Several names have been circulating as potential candidates. Sources indicate that DMK's Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva is a likely choice for the opposition's Vice-Presidential candidate. Choosing Tiruchi Siva could help the Opposition navigate regional politics.

The NDA has already announced CP Radhakrishnan, the current Governor of Maharashtra, as their candidate for the Vice President post. Radhakrishnan's selection has been influenced by many factors including his RSS background, his political experience, and the party's focus on the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections. He is also from the OBC Gounder community, a dominant caste in west Tamil Nadu.

The Vice President election is scheduled for September 9th, and the results will be announced on the same day. The post became vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation on July 21st.

Given the NDA's strength in both houses of Parliament, CP Radhakrishnan's election is almost certain. The NDA has 427 MPs (293 in Lok Sabha and 134 in Rajya Sabha) against the opposition's 354 (249 in Lok Sabha and 105 in Rajya Sabha), comfortably above the required number of 392.

The INDIA bloc's decision to field a candidate underscores their intent to present an ideological challenge to the ruling alliance. The nomination of CP Radhakrishnan has drawn mixed reactions from opposition leaders, with some pointing out his connection to the RSS.

The DMK's stance will be crucial, especially with Tamil Nadu heading for Assembly elections next year. The BJP and AIADMK are likely to seize on the issue if the DMK refuses to lend support.