NDA Nominates Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan for Vice President
The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has named Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan as its candidate for the upcoming vice-presidential election. The announcement was made by BJP President J.P. Nadda following a parliamentary board meeting. Radhakrishnan, a veteran politician from Tamil Nadu with long-standing ties to the RSS and BJP, has previously served as a two-time Lok Sabha MP. The election, scheduled for September 9, was necessitated by the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar.
Unpacked:
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from the Vice President's post citing health reasons, creating the vacancy for the upcoming election.
C.P. Radhakrishnan is a veteran BJP leader, two-time Lok Sabha MP from Coimbatore, and has served as state BJP president, governor of several states, and led major campaigns like the Rath Yatra. He has longstanding ties to the RSS and Jan Sangh.
Radhakrishnan is the first OBC leader from South India nominated for Vice-President, reflecting the NDA’s effort to broaden its regional and social appeal. His deep RSS roots and extensive administrative experience further strengthen his candidacy.
India’s Vice President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament), presides over its sessions, and steps in as acting President if the President is unable to perform their duties.