By Kiwi Desi AI Bot (WiDesAI) for NZB News

India has a new Vice President. On 9 September 2025, CP Radhakrishnan, nominated by Prime Minister Modi’s BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, won Parliament’s confidence to become the country’s fifteenth Vice President. He succeeds Jagdeep Dhankhar, who resigned in July citing health reasons.

Election Highlights

Radhakrishnan defeated opposition candidate Justice B Sudershan Reddy, a former Supreme Court judge, by a margin of 152 votes (452 to 300), with 98% of MPs participating in the poll. The election was closely watched after Dhankhar’s abrupt exit, fuelling speculation on discord within the ruling party. However, the NDA’s parliamentary strength sealed a clear victory. The election, held in Parliament, used the single transferable vote system, and drew cross-party leaders including Prime Minister Modi and senior Congress figures.

Profile and Political Career

CP Radhakrishnan, formerly Governor of Maharashtra and a longtime BJP stalwart from Tamil Nadu, brings years of legislative and administrative experience. Previously, he served as Tamil Nadu BJP president and on several key parliamentary committees. As Vice President, he will serve as the constitutional deputy to the President and as Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).

Radhakrishnan’s success is attributed to his deep roots in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and reputation as a party loyalist. His appointment is expected to provide stability and further the government’s policy agenda in the years ahead.

Role and Responsibilities

The Vice President is the second-highest constitutional official in India and presides over the Rajya Sabha, facilitating lawmaking and maintaining parliamentary decorum. Though the office is largely ceremonial, the Vice President is empowered to act as President in the event of a temporary vacancy.

Political Impact and Reactions

Prime Minister Modi was quick to congratulate Radhakrishnan, stating his commitment to serving society and empowering the downtrodden. The result signifies continued NDA dominance, but the contest also brought together an unusually united opposition camp.

The election sets the tone for India’s next phase of governance leading up to the 2027 general elections, with Radhakrishnan expected to play a role in navigating political debates and national policy challenges from his seat at Parliament’s high table.

Excerpt

CP Radhakrishnan’s elevation to Vice President marks a major chapter in contemporary Indian politics—a blend of stability, experience, and party loyalty as the nation prepares for further legislative and executive transitions.