In a final appeal before the Vice-Presidential elections on September 9, 2025, opposition candidate B. Sudarshan Reddy has urged Members of Parliament to vote with the nation's interest at heart, emphasizing that their decision will impact the very soul of India. Reddy, the INDIA bloc's nominee, framed the election as a crucial moment for upholding the values of the nation's democratic republic.

Reddy, a former Supreme Court judge, appealed to the MPs to prioritize national interest over party affiliations. In a video message shared by the Congress party, he directly addressed the MPs, urging them to "vote thoughtfully, keeping the nation's interest above the party interest". He stressed that the election was more than just a contest for a constitutional post, but rather "a vote for the soul of India".

He reminded the MPs of their constitutional role, stating, "It is the responsibility of each one of us to safeguard the nation, you have even more responsibility as you all are members of Parliament". Reddy expressed his faith that their decision would be in the best interest of the nation, regardless of the outcome.

Reddy's appeal centered on the idea that the MPs carry a moral responsibility to preserve the conscience and soul of the nation. He implored them not to let party loyalty dictate their choice, but instead, to be guided by their love for the country. He asserted that by entrusting him with the office of Vice-President, they would be choosing to defend parliamentary traditions, restore dignity to debate, and ensure that the Rajya Sabha stands as a true temple of democracy.

He emphasized that his candidacy was not driven by personal ambition but was a collective effort to protect and strengthen India's democratic fabric. Highlighting the shrinking democratic space and the strain on citizens' rights, Reddy stated, "it is our duty to defend the soul of our democratic Republic".

Reddy further reminded the MPs that there is no party whip in this election, meaning they are free to vote according to their conscience. He positioned his candidacy as a fight to preserve the Constitution, emphasizing that he is not affiliated with any political party. He appealed to the "inner conscience" of the MPs, assuring them that he would respect whatever decision they make.

Reddy is up against NDA nominee C P Radhakrishnan, the current Governor of Maharashtra. Both candidates hail from southern India, with Reddy from Telangana and Radhakrishnan from Tamil Nadu. Reddy was chosen as the joint opposition candidate last month. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has lauded Reddy as a distinguished and progressive jurist, a champion of social, economic, and political justice who favors the poor and protects the Constitution and fundamental rights.

Asaduddin Owaisi, the AIMIM chief, has also declared his party's support for Reddy, noting that he is a "fellow Hyderabadi and a respected jurist". Owaisi mentioned that he received a request from the Telangana Chief Minister to support Reddy.

B. Sudarshan Reddy was born on July 8, 1946, in Telangana. He served as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court and as a Supreme Court judge from 2007 to 2011.

With the Vice-Presidential polls approaching, Reddy's appeal underscores the opposition's effort to present a united front and frame the election as a battle for the soul of Indian democracy. He urged the MPs to come together to strengthen the republic and create a legacy that future generations can take pride in.