The Opposition's INDIA bloc is likely to field a non-political, non-party candidate for the upcoming vice presidential elections, with several prominent names under consideration.

According to sources, the list includes a Dalit leader, a scientist, and even a descendant of Mahatma Gandhi. Among the probables is former ISRO scientist M Annadurai, known for his key role in India's Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions

The move to back a non-political figure is being seen as an attempt by the opposition to project a consensus candidate who can garner wider acceptance across party lines, sources said.

The Opposition parties will meet today at 12.30 pm at Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's residence in New Delhi to decide on its candidate for the election, to be held on September 9. An official announcement is expected to follow the meeting.