Posted on September 10, 2025
On September 9, 2025, C. P. Radhakrishnan was elected the 15th Vice President of India, marking a significant milestone in his long-standing public career. He secured 452 votes against 300 cast for his opponent, B. Sudershan Reddy, representing a winning margin of 152 votes—a clear outcome but one notable for exposing cracks in the opposition’s unity.
A Quick Glance at the Election
The election followed the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in July due to health concerns, prompting a much earlier-than-scheduled election. With a robust turnout of 98.2%, 767 out of 781 members of Parliament cast ballots; 752 were deemed valid while 15 were invalid. Radhakrishnan’s victory raised eyebrows, underscoring at least 15 instances of cross voting within the INDIA bloc.
The Man Behind the Title
A veteran BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, full name Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, he belongs to the Gounder (Kongu Vellalar) OBC community and is widely respected for his unblemished public service. His political résumé includes being a two-time Lok Sabha MP from Coimbatore during the Vajpayee-led NDA government, state president of BJP Tamil Nadu, and Chairperson of the Coir Board—coupled with stints as Governor of Jharkhand, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
Known for a modest and approachable demeanour, he is seen as a seasoned expert in parliamentary affairs and beloved across party lines. BJP leaders, including JP Nadda, lauded him as “a statesman” with no controversies tainting his career.
Ideological Undertones
Upon his nomination by the NDA, Radhakrishnan described himself as “moved and touched beyond words” and pledged to “work hard for the nation until my last breath”. Following his victory, he framed it as a triumph of “nationalistic ideology”, reaffirming commitment to inclusive governance: “The opposition and the government are two sides of a coin. We’ll work for everyone.”.
Radhakrishnan emphasized the importance of cooperative federalism, calling for harmony between Centre and states—forging a “strong democracy” based on mutual respect.
Broader Reactions and Political Context
Leaders across Maharashtra’s political spectrum, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, extended congratulations highlighting Radhakrishnan’s dedication to education and governance. PM Modi, on social media, called him an outstanding Vice President who will uphold constitutional values, while Congress’s Mallikarjun Kharge expressed hope that he would maintain Parliamentary traditions and ensure fair space for the Opposition.
What Lies Ahead for the Rajya Sabha Chairperson
As Vice President, Radhakrishnan will now assume the role of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. India’s upper house shouldering both ceremonial and legislative oversight duties. His tenure coincides with a vital phase in Indian politics, with Tamil Nadu Assembly elections around the corner a region where his elevation could strengthen BJP’s positioning.
Conclusion
C. P. Radhakrishnan’s election as Vice President is more than a political victory it represents a blend of statesmanship, ideological clarity, and unifying potential. As he prepares to preside over the Rajya Sabha, his promise of balanced governance and constitutional integrity will be closely observed by the nation.