B. Sudershan Reddy: Retired Supreme Court Judge

B. Sudershan Reddy is a well-known retired judge of the Supreme Court of India and the Vice Presidential candidate for the opposition INDIA bloc in the upcoming 2025 Vice Presidential election. Born on July 8, 1946, in a small farming village called Akula Mylaram in present-day Telangana, India, he has had an illustrious legal career marked by dedication to justice and serving the underprivileged.

Starting his legal journey after earning his law degree from Osmania University in 1971, Reddy began practicing mainly civil and constitutional law in the High Court of Andhra Pradesh. Over the years, he established a reputation for sharp legal acumen and integrity. He served as Government Pleader at the Andhra Pradesh High Court, Additional Standing Counsel for the Central Government, and legal adviser for Osmania University during the 1980s and 1990s.

In 1995, he was appointed as a permanent judge at the Andhra Pradesh High Court, and later, in 2005, he became the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. His judicial expertise and progressive outlook led to his elevation to the Supreme Court of India in 2007, where he served until his retirement in 2011. Over his judicial career, he gained respect for judicial decisions that often supported social, economic, and political justice, especially protecting the rights of poorer sections of society. His judgments reflected a commitment to upholding the Indian Constitution and fundamental rights.

Post-retirement, he briefly served as the first Lokayukta (anti-corruption ombudsman) of Goa in 2013 but resigned after a few months citing personal reasons.

In August 2025, the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties in India, chose B. Sudershan Reddy as their candidate for the Vice Presidential election scheduled for September 9, 2025. The bloc’s choice reflects their desire to put forward a candidate known for his judicial integrity, progressive views, and championing of justice for marginalized groups. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized that this election is an "ideological battle" and praised Reddy as a courageous and consistent advocate for social justice and constitutional values. This nomination received backing from all parties in the INDIA alliance, including the Aam Aadmi Party.

The Vice Presidential election itself is significant, occurring after the sudden resignation of the previous Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The election is conducted by the members of both houses of Parliament through a secret ballot, and Reddy will face the candidate from the ruling NDA, CP Radhakrishnan.

From a broader perspective, B. Sudershan Reddy’s candidacy symbolizes the opposition’s focus on legal and ethical principles as a counterpoint to political power. His humble beginnings and lifelong dedication to law and justice make him a figure who appeals to ideals of fairness and constitutional governance. Whether one supports him or not, his nomination highlights the importance of judicial experience and integrity in India’s political landscape today, marking a contrast to career politicians by emphasizing a non-partisan legacy in public service.

In summary, B. Sudershan Reddy is a respected jurist known for advocating the rights of the poor and safeguarding constitutional values, now stepping into the political arena as the opposition’s Vice Presidential candidate in the 2025 elections. His life story reflects hard work, integrity, and a commitment to justice, which the INDIA bloc hopes will resonate with the electorate and the members of Parliament during the voting process.

This candidacy invites the public and political observers to reflect on the role of judiciary experience in high political offices and the kind of leadership that represents constitutional prudence and social equity.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies