Maharashtra governor CP Radhakrishnan has been named the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the post of Vice President of India. The announcement was made by BJP president JP Nadda after a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A Strong South Indian Face
Born on October 20, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan is a garment exporter and industrialist. He is widely respected for his clean image and close connection with grassroots workers. A long-time member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he has served as the Tamil Nadu BJP president in the past.
The BJP sees him as an important face from South India as it continues efforts to strengthen its presence in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, where assembly elections are due next year. His nomination is also seen as a move to highlight the party’s growing focus on the southern states.
Trusted by Modi and Shah
Radhakrishnan is considered a confidant of Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Party leaders say he commands respect across different sections of society in Tamil Nadu. His reputation as a statesman and his clean public image make him a strong choice for the vice-presidential post.
Election Details
The vice-presidential election became necessary after the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar last month. Voting is scheduled for September 9, while the last date for filing nominations is August 22.
Ahead of the announcement, Radhakrishnan visited Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple, which many viewed as a symbolic gesture. With the NDA rallying behind him, BJP leaders are also reaching out to the opposition for consensus support. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has already spoken to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in this regard.
The Road Ahead
If elected, Radhakrishnan will be the second Maharashtra governor after Shankar Dayal Sharma to move to the Vice President’s chair. His nomination reflects the BJP’s strategy of combining loyalty, grassroots connect, and regional representation in key positions.
For now, the spotlight is on Radhakrishnan as he steps into the national political arena as the NDA’s official vice-presidential nominee.
