On August 19, 2025, the INDIA bloc announced B. Sudarshan Reddy as their candidate for the Vice-Presidential election set for September 9. This news marked a significant moment in Indian politics, as the former Supreme Court judge was chosen unanimously by opposition parties. B. Sudarshan Reddy’s life is a story of hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to justice. Born in a small village, he rose to become one of India’s most respected jurists. This article explores his early life, career, and contributions in simple English, celebrating a man who fought for fairness and the Constitution.
Early Life And Family
B. Sudarshan Reddy was born on July 8, 1946, in Akula Mylaram village, located in the Rangareddy district of what is now Telangana, India. His family were farmers, living a simple life in a rural area. Growing up, Sudarshan saw the struggles of village life. His parents worked hard to provide for him and his siblings. Despite their modest means, they valued education. They encouraged young Sudarshan to study and dream big.
As a child, Sudarshan was curious and determined. He attended a local school in his village. He was a bright student with a love for learning. His teachers noticed his sharp mind and dedication. After finishing school, he moved to Hyderabad for higher studies. He joined Osmania University, a well-known institution. There, he earned a Bachelor’s degree and later a law degree in 1971. His time at Osmania shaped his interest in law. He wanted to use his education to help people and fight for justice.
Life in a farmer’s family was not easy. Sudarshan faced financial challenges. But he never gave up. His hard work and focus helped him overcome obstacles. He was inspired by stories of fairness and equality. These values stayed with him throughout his life. They guided him as he began his journey in the legal world.
B Sudershan Reddy Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Wife, Children, Family
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | B. Sudarshan Reddy |
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1946 |
| Place of Birth | Akula Mylaram Village, Rangareddy District, Telangana, India |
| Parents | Not publicly named; belonged to an agricultural family |
| Early Life | Grew up in a farming family. Faced financial challenges, studied in Hyderabad. Known for curiosity and determination. |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree & LL.B. (Law) from Osmania University, Hyderabad (1971) |
| Career Start | Enrolled as advocate with Bar Council of Andhra Pradesh on December 27, 1971. Practiced writ & civil matters under senior advocate K. Pratap Reddy. |
| Major Legal Roles | Government Pleader, Andhra Pradesh High Court (1988–1990) Additional Standing Counsel for Central Government (1990, 6 months) Legal Adviser & Standing Counsel for Osmania University |
| Leadership Roles | Secretary & Correspondent, A.V. Education Society institutions President, Andhra Pradesh High Court Advocates Association (1993–1994) |
| Judicial Career | Additional Judge, Andhra Pradesh High Court (May 2, 1993) Permanent Judge, Andhra Pradesh High Court (May 2, 1995) Chief Justice, Gauhati High Court (Dec 5, 2005) Judge, Supreme Court of India (Jan 12, 2007 – July 8, 2011) |
| Notable Judgments | Black Money Case (2011): Directed formation of SIT to investigate black money abroad Salwa Judum Case (2011): Declared arming tribal youth unconstitutional Constitution Bench (2011): Ruled natural gas as a national asset under government control |
| Post-Retirement | First Lokayukta of Goa (March – Sept 2013; resigned for personal reasons) Trustee, International Arbitration & Mediation Centre, Hyderabad |
| Vice-Presidential Candidacy | Nominated by INDIA bloc as Vice-Presidential candidate on August 19, 2025, for election on September 9, 2025, contesting against NDA candidate C.P. Radhakrishnan |
| Personal Life | Lives simply, values humility. Keeps family details private. Known for supporting the poor and upholding the Constitution. |
| Health | No specific health issues reported; active at 79 years old. |
| Legacy | Respected as a progressive jurist. Delivered landmark judgments upholding social, economic & political justice. Role model for young lawyers. |
Legal Career
After completing his law degree, B. Sudarshan Reddy enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Andhra Pradesh on December 27, 1971. He started his career in Hyderabad, working under senior advocate K. Pratap Reddy. He took on cases in the City Civil Courts and the Andhra Pradesh High Court. His work focused on writ and civil matters. He quickly gained a reputation for his sharp legal mind.
Sudarshan worked hard to build his career. He was known for being thorough and honest. In 1988, he became a Government Pleader in the Andhra Pradesh High Court. He served in this role until 1990. During this time, he handled important legal cases for the government. His work impressed many. In 1990, he briefly served as Additional Standing Counsel for the Central Government. He also worked as a legal adviser for Osmania University. These roles gave him valuable experience. They helped him understand the law deeply.
Sudarshan was not just a lawyer. He took on leadership roles too. He served as Secretary and Correspondent for institutions run by the A.V. Education Society. In 1993-94, he was President of the Andhra Pradesh High Court Advocates Association. These positions showed his ability to lead and serve. His early career was marked by dedication and a passion for justice. He earned respect from colleagues and clients alike.
Rising Through the Courts
In 1993, B. Sudarshan Reddy’s career took a big leap. He was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Andhra Pradesh High Court. Two years later, on May 2, 1995, he became a permanent judge. His work as a judge was remarkable. He handled complex cases with fairness. His judgments were clear and well-reasoned. People admired his commitment to the law.
In December 2005, Sudarshan was appointed Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. This was a major achievement. He served in this role with distinction. He ensured that justice was accessible to all. His leadership strengthened the court’s reputation. In January 2007, he reached the peak of his judicial career. He was appointed a judge of the Supreme Court of India. This was a proud moment for him and his family.
As a Supreme Court judge, Sudarshan served until his retirement on July 8, 2011. During his four-and-a-half-year tenure, he delivered several landmark judgments. He focused on issues like criminal law, taxation, service law, and human rights. One of his notable rulings was in the Black Money Case. He ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team to probe black money stashed abroad. Another key judgment was in 2011, when he declared the Chhattisgarh government’s use of armed tribal youth as “Special Police Officers” (Salwa Judum) unconstitutional. He also served on a Constitution Bench that declared natural gas a national asset under government control. These rulings showed his commitment to fairness and protecting the Constitution.
Contributions And Challenges
After retiring from the Supreme Court, B. Sudarshan Reddy continued to serve. In March 2013, he became the first Lokayukta of Goa, an anti-corruption ombudsman. He took on this role to fight corruption and ensure transparency. However, he resigned in September 2013, citing personal reasons. Despite the short tenure, his appointment showed the trust people had in his integrity.
Sudarshan also contributed to legal education. He served on the Board of Trustees of the International Arbitration and Mediation Centre in Hyderabad. He shared his knowledge with young lawyers and students. His work inspired many to pursue careers in law. He believed in using the law to uplift the poor and protect their rights. His judgments often favored the underprivileged. This earned him the title of a “progressive jurist.”
Sudarshan faced challenges too. Coming from a humble background, he had to work harder than many to succeed. He also navigated the pressures of high-profile cases. Yet, he remained calm and focused. His integrity was never questioned. He stayed true to his values, even in tough times.
Vice-Presidential Candidacy
On August 19, 2025, B. Sudarshan Reddy’s name made headlines again. The INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, chose him as their candidate for the Vice-Presidential election. The decision was announced by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge after a meeting in New Delhi. All opposition parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party, supported his candidacy. Kharge called it a “big achievement for democracy.” He praised Sudarshan as one of India’s most distinguished jurists, known for his courage and commitment to justice.
Sudarshan’s opponent is C.P. Radhakrishnan, the NDA’s candidate and Maharashtra Governor. The election, set for September 9, is seen as an ideological battle. Sudarshan expressed happiness at being chosen by parties representing over 60% of India’s population. He appealed to all parties to support him, emphasizing his goal to uphold the Constitution. His nomination reflects the opposition’s focus on judicial integrity and democratic values.
Personal Life
B. Sudarshan Reddy, now 79, is known for his simple lifestyle. Despite his achievements, he remains humble. He values his roots in Akula Mylaram village. He often speaks about the importance of fairness and equality. Little is known about his family, as he keeps his personal life private. His focus has always been on his work and service to society.
Sudarshan’s life reflects the values he holds dear. He believes in justice for all, especially the poor. His judgments show his compassion for the marginalized. He is respected for his honesty and dedication. Even in retirement, he continues to inspire others through his words and actions.
Legacy
B. Sudarshan Reddy’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. From a farmer’s son to a Supreme Court judge, he proved that hard work can overcome any challenge. His legal career, spanning over four decades, is a testament to his brilliance. His landmark judgments changed lives and strengthened India’s legal system. His nomination as a Vice-Presidential candidate shows the trust people have in him.
Sudarshan’s legacy is not just in his rulings. It is in the way he lived his life. He stood for truth and fairness. He fought for the poor and protected the Constitution. His story inspires young lawyers and students. It reminds us that anyone can make a difference with determination and integrity.
As India prepares for the Vice-Presidential election, all eyes are on B. Sudarshan Reddy. His nomination is a symbol of hope for a fair and just future. Whether he wins or not, his contributions to India’s legal and democratic system will never be forgotten. He remains a true champion of justice, a man who dedicated his life to serving the nation.[](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/who-is-b-sudershan-reddy-5-facts-about-india-blocs-vice-presidential-candidate-101755588706900.html)[](https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/who-is-b-sudershan-reddy-oppositions-candidate-for-vice-president-polls-9114162)[](https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/justice-b-sudershan-reddy-to-be-oppositions-vice-president-nominee-9114078)