Speculation is mounting within the Opposition INDIA bloc that DMK Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva may be named as its vice-presidential candidate. Several media reports on Monday suggested his name was under serious consideration ahead of the Opposition’s virtual meeting to decide on a nominee.

Meanwhile, media reports suggested that he denied the speculation.

Who is Tiruchi Siva?

Tiruchi Siva is one of the most seasoned parliamentarians in the Rajya Sabha, representing Tamil Nadu since 1996. A senior Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader, he has been elected to the Upper House five times — in 1996, 2002, 2007, 2014, and 2020.

Born on May 15, 1954, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, Siva began his political career as a student activist in the DMK’s student wing. During the Emergency in 1976, he was imprisoned for one year under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). He later rose through the party ranks, serving as deputy secretary and later secretary of the DMK Youth Wing, and subsequently as the party’s Propaganda Secretary and Deputy General Secretary.

Siva is also a prolific speaker and writer, contributing regularly to the DMK’s official organ ‘Murasoli’ and other Tamil publications. Known for his sharp wit and eloquence in Tamil and English, he is considered one of the most effective debaters in Parliament.

Contributions in Parliament

Historic Bill for Transgender Rights: In 2015, Siva piloted the Rights of Transgender Persons Bill, which became the first private member’s bill in 45 years to be passed in the Rajya Sabha. The legislation sought to protect transgender people’s rights in education, employment, and protection from discrimination.

Women’s Rights: On International Women’s Day in 2018, he urged the government to exempt sanitary napkins from GST.

Tamil Nadu Issues: He has consistently raised Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and flagged delays in the Union government’s assent to state bills.

Opposition to CAA: In 2019, Siva strongly opposed the Citizenship Amendment Bill, questioning its exclusion of Sri Lankan Tamils and arguing that it targeted Muslims, creating fear among minorities.

Awards and Recognition

For his exemplary performance in Parliament, Siva received the Best Parliamentarian Award (Rajya Sabha) at the 2019 Lokmat Parliamentary Awards, presented by then Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu.

Currently serving his fifth term, Siva remains one of the most prominent voices of the DMK in Delhi, respected across party lines for his consistent advocacy and legislative contributions.