INDIA Bloc Likely to Contest Vice Presidential Poll Despite NDA Majority

The INDIA bloc is likely to contest the vice presidential poll despite the NDA having a majority, with sources stating that the opposition should not shy away from a contest to send a strong political message. The effective strength of both Houses is 782, and the winning candidate requires 392 votes. The NDA has 423 members, while the INDIA bloc has 313 members. The Election Commission has begun the process of holding the vice presidential election.

The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc is set to contest the vice presidential poll, despite the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) having a majority. Sources within the INDIA bloc have indicated that they intend to field a common candidate, aiming to send a strong political message irrespective of the outcome [1][3].

The effective strength of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha together is 782, and the winning candidate will require 392 votes to secure the position [1][3]. The NDA currently holds 423 seats in Parliament, while the INDIA bloc has 313 members, with the remaining seats being non-aligned [1][3].

The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who cited medical reasons but had several run-ins with the opposition, has led to the need for a new election. Dhankhar's resignation came on the first day of the Monsoon session of Parliament, and the Election Commission of India has already begun the process of holding the vice presidential election [1][2][3].

The INDIA bloc's decision to contest the poll comes amidst speculation about the reasons behind Dhankhar's resignation. The opposition has suggested that there may be political motivations behind his sudden departure, with Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge questioning the government's role in the resignation [2]. The Election Commission has begun preparations for the election, including the finalization of the Electoral College and the dissemination of background material on previous Vice-Presidential elections [2].

The vice presidential election is scheduled to be held "as soon as possible" after the vacancy occurs, according to Clause 2 of Article 68 of the Constitution. The person elected to fill the vacancy will hold office for a full term of five years from the date of assuming the office [1][3].

References:
[1] https://m.rediff.com/news/commentary/2025/jul/24/india-bloc-likely-to-put-up-joint-vp-candidate/3272fc93f74c8fc12ac93692ed33170b
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/pib-fact-check-debunks-claims-of-vice-presidents-official-residence-being-sealed/articleshow/122871040.cms
[3] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/india-bloc-may-field-joint-vp-candidate-despite-nda-majority-report-125072401444_1.html