India has a new Vice President, and his story is one of dedication, resilience, and strategic leadership. On September 9, 2025, CP Radhakrishnan, the NDA’s nominee, was elected as the 15th Vice President of India, defeating INDIA bloc’s candidate Justice B Sudershan Reddy in a closely watched contest. With 452 votes in his favor against 300 for Reddy, Radhakrishnan’s victory marks a significant moment in Indian politics—especially for southern representation and OBC leadership at the national level.
Let’s explore who CP Radhakrishnan is, what his journey has looked like, and why his election matters in the broader political and social landscape of India.
Vice Presidential Election 2025: Key Highlights
The Vice Presidential election saw an impressive 98.2% voter turnout, with 767 out of 788 Members of Parliament casting their votes. Thirteen MPs abstained, and 15 votes were declared invalid. The election was necessitated by the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, who stepped down from the Vice President’s post on July 21, 2025, citing health concerns.
The contest between CP Radhakrishnan and Justice B Sudershan Reddy was not just a political battle—it was a symbolic clash of ideologies, regional aspirations, and social representation. Radhakrishnan’s win is seen as a strategic move by the NDA, especially with upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu and other southern states.
Who Is CP Radhakrishnan?
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, popularly known as CP Radhakrishnan, was born on May 4, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu. His political journey began early—at the age of 16, he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a volunteer and later became part of the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, the predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from VO Chidambaram College in Tuticorin, and his early involvement in grassroots politics laid the foundation for a career that would span decades and touch multiple facets of governance.
Political Rise: From Coimbatore to the National Stage
Radhakrishnan’s first major political breakthrough came in the aftermath of the 1998 Coimbatore bombings, a tragic event that shook Tamil Nadu. Riding a wave of public sentiment and his strong local connect, he was elected to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore. He was re-elected in 1999, and during his tenure, he served as the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Textiles, a role that aligned with his roots in the textile hub of Tiruppur.
In 2004, he represented India at the United Nations General Assembly, showcasing his diplomatic acumen. He was also part of the first Indian parliamentary delegation to Taiwan, marking a significant moment in India’s outreach to East Asia.
Leadership in Tamil Nadu BJP
Between 2004 and 2007, Radhakrishnan served as the President of the Tamil Nadu BJP, a period marked by bold initiatives and grassroots mobilization. One of his most notable efforts was a 93-day, 19,000 km Rath Yatra across Tamil Nadu. The campaign focused on:
- River-linking projects
- Eradication of untouchability
- Promotion of a Uniform Civil Code
This yatra wasn’t just a political exercise—it was a social movement aimed at bridging divides and promoting inclusive development.
Boosting MSMEs: Role in Coir Board
In 2016, Radhakrishnan was appointed as the Chairman of the All India Coir Board under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). Under his leadership, the board achieved record export figures, giving a major boost to rural employment and sustainable industries. His work in promoting coir products and expanding their global reach earned him praise from industry stakeholders and policymakers alike.
🏢 Governor of Multiple States
Radhakrishnan’s administrative capabilities were further recognized when he was appointed as the Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023. During his tenure, he was also given additional responsibilities as the Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry—a rare combination that speaks to his versatility and trust within the government.
On July 31, 2024, he was sworn in as the Governor of Maharashtra, one of India’s most politically and economically significant states. His tenure in Maharashtra was marked by efforts to streamline governance, promote investment, and support cultural initiatives.
Social Identity and Strategic Importance
CP Radhakrishnan belongs to the Kongu Vellala Gounder community, a prominent OBC group in western Tamil Nadu. His nomination and election as Vice President are significant for several reasons:
- He is the first South Indian to hold the Vice President’s post.
- He is only the second OBC leader to be elected to this position.
- His elevation is seen as a strategic move by the NDA to strengthen its base in Tamil Nadu and appeal to OBC voters across India.
In a political landscape where representation matters, Radhakrishnan’s rise sends a strong message about inclusivity and regional balance.
What His Election Means for India
The Vice President of India plays a crucial role—not just as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, but also as a constitutional authority who can influence parliamentary proceedings, uphold democratic values, and represent India on global platforms.
With his vast experience in legislative affairs, governance, diplomacy, and grassroots mobilization, CP Radhakrishnan brings a unique blend of skills to the role. His tenure is expected to focus on:
- Strengthening parliamentary debates and decorum
- Promoting cooperative federalism
- Advocating for social harmony and inclusive development
Final Thoughts
CP Radhakrishnan’s journey from a small town in Tamil Nadu to the Vice President of India is a story of perseverance, public service, and strategic leadership. His election reflects the changing dynamics of Indian politics—where regional voices, social diversity, and administrative experience are increasingly valued.
As India gears up for future challenges and opportunities, Radhakrishnan’s leadership will be closely watched—not just by political analysts, but by citizens who believe in the power of inclusive governance.
His rise is not just a personal achievement—it’s a moment of pride for Tamil Nadu, for OBC communities, and for every Indian who believes in the strength of democracy.
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