Headlines:
Winner: CP Radhakrishnan (NDA) — 452 votes
Runner-up: B. Sudershan Reddy (INDIA bloc) — 300 votes
Margin of Victory: 152 votes
Turnout: 98.2% (767 MPs voted; 752 valid votes)
Implication: Cross-voting & invalid ballots hint at cracks in Opposition unity
Background: Former Governor of Maharashtra, RSS veteran, two-time Lok Sabha MP; known for non-confrontational leadership & advocating cooperative federalism
Next Steps: NDA prepares to chart new leadership trajectory under his vice presidency
Leadership Change: CP Radhakrishnan Emerges as India’s 15th Vice President
In a pivotal political development for India, CP Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 15th Vice President, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankar who resigned in July citing health concerns. The election, held on September 9, 2025, reflected both the ruling coalition’s strength and signs of Opposition vulnerability.
Election Snapshot & Numbers
- Votes Secured: Radhakrishnan scored 452 votes out of 752 valid ballots—well above the required majority of 377. His opponent, B. Sudarsan Reddy of the INDIA bloc, secured 300 votes, while 15 votes were invalid, and turnout stood at a robust 98.2%.
Sources:
Indiatimes
Wikipedia
Reuters - The sizable win raises questions about Opposition cohesion, with analysts pointing to possible cross-voting and internal discord.
Political Journey & Profile
Radhakrishnan, a seasoned leader from Tamil Nadu, has deep roots in the RSS and BJP, early political alignments of his career. Over time, he held significant roles including Lok Sabha MP for Coimbatore, BJP Tamil Nadu president, and Chairperson of the Coir Board. More recently, he served as Governor of Jharkhand, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
Known for his calm and inclusive leadership style, he is fondly referred to as “Ajatashatru”—symbolizing someone without enemies—and advocates for cooperative federalism.
Institutional Significance & Market Reaction
As Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, Radhakrishnan assumes a critical constitutional responsibility. The Vice Presidency places him second in protocol and empowers him to preside over parliamentary proceedings or act as President when required.
Market reactions reflected the political stakes—though not as dramatic as some transitions, the sudden vacancy had previously unsettled policy watchers. Radhakrishnan’s election offers much-needed stability for institutional continuity.
What It Reflects Politically
- Strong NDA unity: The margin exceeded expectations, showcasing well-organized support from coalition partners—including fringe and regional allies not formally aligned.
Prime Minister Modi and senior regional leaders from Maharashtra—like CM Fadnavis and Deputy CM Shinde—publicly lauded Radhakrishnan, citing his integrity and administrative experience.
Final Thoughts
CP Radhakrishnan’s ascent to the Vice Presidency is as much a political affirmation for the NDA as it is a strategic gamble on inclusive leadership. His reputation for collaborative governance and constitutional fidelity positions him well for the role ahead.
While his election signals continuity, it also highlights cracks in the Opposition’s armor—raising questions about future alliances and campaign cohesion. As Radhakrishnan steps into power, his effectiveness in stabilizing Rajya Sabha proceedings and nurturing bipartisan ties will determine his legacy.
India now awaits how its new Vice President will steer through both legislative responsibilities and the symbolic mantle of constitutional leadership.
