Opposition party's Vice Presidential candidate Sudarshan Reddy has stated that democracy is threatened not only by governments but also by citizens based on religion, caste, language, and region.
New Delhi: Political activity has intensified regarding the Vice Presidential elections in India. Former judge Sudarshan Reddy, nominated as the opposition's candidate this time, clarified his vision and views, stating that his fight is not for any political party but for the protection of the Constitution. He openly discussed issues such as rising polarization in society, challenges facing democracy, and the role of security forces.
Sudarshan Reddy says the current environment has changed significantly
Sudarshan Reddy states that the current environment has changed significantly. Society is rapidly polarizing, which is the biggest threat to democracy. He said:
'The biggest threat in a democracy is not just from governments. The threat can also come from citizens when they try to divide society on the basis of religion, caste, language, and region.'
He believes that if citizens themselves divide society, the foundation of democracy will weaken.
Sudarshan Reddy shares his views on NDA's numbers game and secret ballot
Regarding claims of the NDA already having a majority, Reddy said that this election is conducted by secret ballot, and no party whip is applicable. Here, no party can force its MPs. Ultimately, it is the MPs who vote, and no one knows who voted for whom. I am optimistic and will write to all MPs appealing to them to consider my candidature on merit.
When asked about criticism from Home Minister Amit Shah, Reddy stated that some people are spreading misinformation. He clarified: "If someone had read the Salwa Judum verdict, they wouldn't say such things. I had only stated that the right to fight violence rests solely with the state, not with any militia or group. The government should not involve innocent tribals in this, and it is its duty to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens."
The issue of deploying security forces in school buildings
Shah had criticized Reddy's decision to remove security forces from school and college buildings. In response, Reddy retorted: "Should we assume that the government couldn't arrange accommodation for security forces, hence school and college buildings were occupied? I only said to let the schools function. According to the Constitution, if a judge gives a verdict, how can they be called biased?"
While some former judges have supported Reddy, others have opposed him. He stated that this is natural, as there are different opinions on every issue. I express my gratitude to the 56 colleagues who supported me. This is not just a political contest but a question of the dignity of a constitutional office.
Reddy also emphasized the protection of the basic structure of the Indian Constitution and fundamental rights. He said that former Chief Justice Subba Rao's Golaknath judgment established the principle that Parliament cannot abrogate fundamental rights. Later, the Kesavananda Bharati case clarified that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be altered.
