In a decisive outcome on September 9, 2025, C.P. Radhakrishnan, nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), was elected as India’s 15th Vice President. Securing 452 votes and defeating opposition nominee B. Sudershan Reddy—who received 300 votes—Radhakrishnan claimed victory by a substantial margin of 152 votes. The polling reflected strong participation, with over 98% of elected lawmakers casting ballots.
The result underscores strong support for the NDA in Parliament and hints at cracks within the opposition bloc. Reports suggest that around 15 opposition votes may have gone to Radhakrishnan—either via deliberate cross-voting or through the invalid ballots recorded—raising questions about the cohesion and discipline of the opposition INDIA alliance.
With the resignation of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar earlier this year, India witnessed an early vice-presidential election, conducted under the Constitution’s provisions. The role holds significance not only as the second-highest constitutional post but also as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha and the acting President when needed.
Radhakrishnan, a seasoned politician from Tamil Nadu, brings decades of experience spanning parliamentary roles, governance, and party leadership. Before this election, he served as the Governor of Maharashtra (and held additional charges in Jharkhand, Telangana, and Puducherry) and had earlier represented Coimbatore in Parliament. His victory reflects not just electoral arithmetic but also the NDA’s strategic aim to balance regional representation and ideological alignment.
In his post-election remarks, the newly elected Vice President pledged to uphold democratic values and work toward making India a developed nation by 2047. He emphasized the importance of democratic dialogue and the complementary roles of the ruling party and the opposition in strengthening India’s constitutional framework. Known for his calm and affable demeanor, Radhakrishnan appealed for cooperative federalism—calling for harmony between the Centre and the states as a cornerstone of a resilient democracy.
In sum, Radhakrishnan’s election not only reinforces the ruling coalition’s parliamentary strength but also signals a strategic, inclusive choice aimed at bridging regions and ideologies in Indian politics.