V-P Poll: Its Dhankhar Experiment Turning Sour, BJP Likely to Go for Tried and Tested Pick

Opposition Will Also Join the Fray

- MPOST BUREAU

NEW DELHI: As the Election Commission formally set in motion the process of electing the next vice president by appointing a returning officer, the BJP-led alliance is set to start consultation for its pick for the key constitutional position amid indications that the Opposition will also join the fray.

In the electoral college that comprises members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has a clear majority as its strength is nearly 425 out of the current total of 782 MPs, making its nominee a clear favourite to fill in the position left vacant by the abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar.

While the brain trust of the BJP is yet to begin deliberations, there is a strong view within the party and its allies that the party leadership will prioritise organisational rootedness and political commitment over an excessive focus on experiment that has at times made them look outside their own pool of experienced talent, as was the case with Dhankhar in the 2022 polls.