September 9, 2025 – National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate C.P. Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 15th Vice President of India, defeating the Opposition nominee B. Sudershan Reddy in the Vice Presidential election held in Parliament today. Voting was carried out by Members of Parliament through a secret ballot, with results declared in the evening.
Backed by the BJP-led NDA, Radhakrishnan secured a comfortable margin, aided by the coalition’s strength in both Houses of Parliament. Several Opposition parties supported Sudershan Reddy, a retired Supreme Court judge, but the absence of unity among regional parties and abstentions by certain groups, including the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, weakened his chances.
Radhakrishnan, a senior BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, is widely regarded for his long association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and his work as a two-time Member of Parliament from Coimbatore. Over the years, he has held key responsibilities within the BJP organization and has built a reputation for being approachable, disciplined, and non-confrontational in his political style. His election is being seen not only as a reflection of the NDA’s dominance but also as part of the BJP’s continuing efforts to expand its influence in southern India.
Congratulating him on the victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Radhakrishnan embodies dedication to democratic values and public service. Party colleagues expressed confidence that his presence as Vice President will ensure smoother functioning of parliamentary proceedings and bring a spirit of dialogue to the Rajya Sabha.
On the other hand, the Opposition highlighted that Sudershan Reddy’s candidature was symbolic of their demand for institutional independence and impartial leadership in Parliament. Though he was unable to gather the numbers needed for victory, his presence in the contest was seen as an effort to challenge the ruling bloc and underline concerns about the balance of power between government and constitutional offices.
The office of the Vice President carries significant importance as the second-highest constitutional post in the country. The Vice President also serves as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, where debates are often intense and politically charged. With the government preparing to introduce major legislative proposals, Radhakrishnan will now be tasked with maintaining decorum, ensuring fair participation of members, and upholding parliamentary traditions in an increasingly polarized political climate.
As he takes charge, expectations will rest on his ability to combine neutrality with effective leadership in the Upper House. Analysts believe his calm temperament and administrative experience may help manage challenges ahead, though his alignment with the ruling alliance will likely remain a point of scrutiny from the Opposition.
The election result marks the beginning of a new phase in India’s parliamentary history, with C.P. Radhakrishnan now set to assume office and carry forward the responsibilities of the Vice Presidency. His tenure will play a crucial role in shaping the functioning of the Rajya Sabha and, by extension, the course of national politics in the coming years.
