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New Delhi: Senior BJP leader and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate C.P. Radhakrishnan, who was serving as the Governor of Maharashtra, was elected as the 15th Vice President of India on Tuesday, defeating Opposition candidate B. Sudershan Reddy in a straight contest.

The counting of votes took place in Parliament House under the supervision of the Returning Officer and Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha, as per Election Commission protocols.

Radhakrishnan, hailing from Tamil Nadu and long active in BJP’s organisational and parliamentary circles, now ascends to the nation’s second-highest constitutional post, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar. His win further cements the NDA’s influence in key governance roles.

Reactions Pour In

President Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt congratulations, emphasising Radhakrishnan’s extensive public service. “Your decades of rich experience in public life will contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. I extend my best wishes for a successful and impactful tenure,” she stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing him respectfully as “Thiru C.P. Radhakrishnan,” praised his unwavering dedication to serving society’s most vulnerable. “His life has always been devoted to serving society and empowering the poor and marginalised. I am confident that he will be an outstanding Vice President, who will strengthen our Constitution,” Modi said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah: “I firmly believe that your sagacity as a leader who has risen from the grassroots of society and your profound knowledge about administration will help us in bringing out the best in our parliamentary democracy to serve the marginalised,” he commented.

From Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin joined in extending his greetings. “I warmly congratulate Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan. I trust that he will discharge his duties with steadfast commitment to the constitutional framework and democratic ideals of our nation,” Stalin remarked.

Looking Ahead

The Election Commission’s notification had listed only two contenders—Radhakrishnan and Opposition-backed B. Sudershan Reddy—making it a direct face-off. Radhakrishnan’s victory counts as a significant milestone in a career that spans parliamentary politics, state governance, and public service.

As he prepares to take office, political watchers believe his ability to preside over the Rajya Sabha and guide legislative harmony will be crucial.

Witnessed as more than just a personal triumph, his election is seen as validation of his reputation as a consensus-builder and a champion for social empowerment.

Profile: C. P. Radhakrishnan

  • Immediate Prior Position: Governor of Maharashtra (from July 2024 until his nomination/election)
  • Earlier Governorships: Jharkhand (Feb 2023–July 2024), along with additional charges as Governor of Telangana and Lt. Governor of Puducherry in 2024
  • Parliamentary Career: MP for Coimbatore in Lok Sabha (1998–2004)
  • Organisational Role: State President of BJP, Tamil Nadu (2003–2006)
  • Other Notables: Raj Bhavan leadership across states; long association with RSS and BJP since youth