New Delhi | September 9, 2025 — Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader C.P. Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 15th Vice President of India, following a clear victory in the vice-presidential elections held today. The election was necessitated after former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from office in July, citing health reasons.
Radhakrishnan, the candidate backed by the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), received 452 votes, comfortably defeating the opposition INDIA bloc’s nominee, Justice (Retd.) B. Sudershan Reddy, who secured 300 votes. The total turnout included members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, who voted via secret ballot using the proportional representation system.
A Veteran of Public Service
Hailing from Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan has had a long and distinguished career in Indian public life. He served as a Member of Parliament from Coimbatore, held leadership roles within the BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit, and chaired the Coir Board of India. More recently, he served as the Governor of Jharkhand and Maharashtra, gaining a reputation for his administrative discipline and inclusive approach.
He is also known for his long-standing association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and is considered a seasoned party strategist with a non-confrontational political style.
Smooth Transition Following Dhankhar’s Resignation
The sudden resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2025, created a constitutional requirement for the Vice Presidential election to be conducted within 60 days. The Election Commission scheduled polling for September 9, ensuring a timely transition as mandated by the Constitution.
With this victory, Radhakrishnan will now serve a full five-year term as Vice President. Notably, he will not merely complete the remainder of Dhankhar’s tenure but begin his own fresh term upon taking the oath of office.
Role and Responsibilities
As Vice President, Radhakrishnan will act as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, playing a crucial role in maintaining order and legislative efficiency in the Upper House. Additionally, he holds the constitutional responsibility to act as President of India in the absence or incapacity of the incumbent.
National Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leaders congratulated Radhakrishnan on his victory, praising his “commitment to public service and deep roots in Indian values.” Leaders from the INDIA bloc also acknowledged the result, with several opposition MPs highlighting the need for continued collaboration in the Rajya Sabha under the new Vice President’s leadership.
Looking Ahead
C.P. Radhakrishnan’s elevation to the Vice Presidency adds another experienced hand to India’s constitutional leadership at a time of significant national and global developments. With his parliamentary background and governance experience, expectations are high for a term marked by stability, dialogue, and dignity in the country’s
highest legislative chamber.
