Opposition vice-president nominee B Sudershan Reddy on Saturday said he was seeking support for his candidature from all members of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on merit, irrespective of party lines, and added that he was ready to meet the BJP leadership if permitted, reported news agency PTI.

Speaking at a press conference in Ranchi, Reddy emphasised that he wanted this election to be “one of the most decent and fair polls” India has witnessed in recent years. He also questioned the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, arguing that being in majority does not give anyone the licence to act arbitrarily.

“I have sent letters to all members of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha requesting that my candidature be considered on merit, and I am ready to meet and seek support from BJP’s top brass if it allows me to do so,” he said.