In a move that has captured political imaginations across India, Maharashtra Governor Chandrapuram Ponnusamy (C. P.) Radhakrishnan has been selected as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the upcoming Vice-Presidential election, scheduled for September 9, 2025. This follows the early resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, prompting what is now classified as the first early vice-presidential election since 1987.
In a development that signals continuity of seasoned leadership and deep political experience at the highest constitutional levels, CP Radhakrishnan, the Governor of Maharashtra, has officially taken charge as the Vice President of India today. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to the veteran politician and administrator.
Radhakrishnan’s elevation to the post of Vice President marks another significant chapter in his decades-long .
public life. Widely regarded for his sharp political acumen, grassroots connect, and balanced administrative approach, he now steps into a constitutional role that combines dignity, impartiality, and responsibility
A Governor Elevated: Tracing Radhakrishnan’s Ascent
Born on October 20, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan began his political journey as an RSS activist, later ascending through the ranks of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)—first as a state executive member of the Jan Sangh, then as State BJP Secretary in Tamil Nadu (1996), and subsequently President of the state party (2004–07).
In addition to holding parliamentary committee positions, such as chairing the Standing Committee on Textiles and serving on others ranging from PSUs to finance, he was elected to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore in 1998 and 1999. His administrative credentials further include serving as Chairman of the Coir Board (2016–20), where under his leadership exports surged to ₹2,532 crore, and as BJP’s All-India In-Charge for Kerala (2020–22).
Following his appointment as Jharkhand’s governor in February 2023, Radhakrishnan also served as Telangana’s governor and Puducherry’s lieutenant governor in early 2024. In a lavish ceremony that included a ceremonial parade of honor from the Indian Navy, he succeeded Ramesh Bais as Governor of Maharashtra on July 31, 2024.
Within Maharashtra, he earned praise for a clean image, cross-party cordiality, actively facilitating functioning of the Legislative Council, addressing opposition concerns, and maintaining healthy ties with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs and other top leaders.
The BJP’s Strategic Pick: Nomination and Considerations
C. P. Radhakrishnan was formally nominated as the BJP’s vice presidential candidate on August 17, 2025, by the party’s president, J.P. Nadda, and prime minister, Narendra Modi.
The choice, reportedly from over a dozen BJP hopefuls, was motivated by his unblemished image, administrative track record, consensus-building ability, and appeal across party lines—including expected outreach to the DMK and alignment with OBC communities in the South. Nadda emphasized the NDA’s aim for a unanimous election, signaling intent to reach out to Opposition leaders for a consensus.
Radhakrishnan himself expressed gratitude to PM Modi and pledged to “work hard for the nation till his last breath,” acknowledging the weight of the constitutional office.
The Vacancy: Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Early Exit
The election follows the resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, which prompted an early election set for September 9, 2025—a rare occurrence, and the first such early poll since that of 1987. Dhankhar’s departure was reportedly on health grounds, opening the path for rapid political maneuvering.
Prime Minister Modi’s Congratulatory Note
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Radhakrishnan on taking office shortly after the ceremony.“Shri CP Radhakrishnan Ji brings with him vast experience, deep knowledge of our constitutional system, and a lifetime of commitment to public service. I am confident that under his guidance, the Rajya Sabha will witness debates that enrich our democracy,” the Prime Minister said.
Leaders of the opposition also extended their best wishes, though with notes of caution. Senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge remarked, “We welcome Shri Radhakrishnan to this high office. We hope he will uphold impartiality and ensure that the voice of the opposition is heard and respected in the Rajya Sabha.”
The Vice President’s Office – A Crucial Constitutional Role
The vice president is India’s second-highest constitutional position. As the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth legislative functioning, balancing fiery debates with parliamentary discipline, and upholding the dignity of the House.
At a time when parliamentary proceedings are often marked by intense confrontation between the treasury benches and the opposition, Radhakrishnan’s experience as a consensus-builder will be tested. His tenure is expected to focus on maintaining order, encouraging constructive debate, and strengthening the role of the Upper House as a forum of federal representation and intellectual discussion.
At a time when parliamentary proceedings are often marked by intense confrontation between the treasury benches and the opposition, Radhakrishnan’s experience as a consensus-builder will be tested. His tenure is expected to focus on maintaining order, encouraging constructive debate, and strengthening the role of the Upper House as a forum of federal representation and intellectual discussion.
