Vice President Elections 2025: BJP Announces CP Radhakrishnan as NDA Candidate
New Delhi, August 17, 2025:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced CP Radhakrishnan, the current Governor of Maharashtra, as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) nominee for the upcoming Vice Presidential election. The polls are scheduled for September 9, 2025, and the announcement was made by BJP President JP Nadda after a series of consultations with senior leaders.
Who is CP Radhakrishnan?
To begin with, CP Radhakrishnan is a seasoned BJP leader with strong roots in Tamil Nadu and a long-standing association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
- Initially, he entered public life as an RSS swayamsevak.
- Later, he became a two-time Member of Parliament from Coimbatore in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
- In addition, he served as the President of BJP Tamil Nadu, where he worked to strengthen the party’s b,
- ase in the Dravidian state.
- Furthermore, he has held gubernatorial posts in Jharkhand and is presently the Governor of Maharashtra.
Because of his clean reputation and organizational experience, Radhakrishnan is widely respected across political circles.
Why BJP Chose Radhakrishnan
Moving forward, the decision to field CP Radhakrishnan is not just symbolic but also strategic.
- Southern Representation – First of all, his nomination highlights BJP’s attempt to consolidate support in South India, a region where the party seeks greater influence.
- RSS Legacy – Moreover, his long relationship with the RSS strengthens BJP’s ideological credentials.
- Experience & Credibility – Finally, his clean image combined with his administrative record makes him a safe yet effective choice.
As a result, political observers believe the BJP has picked a candidate who appeals to both ideological loyalists and regional stakeholders.
The Electoral Battle
When it comes to the election process, the Vice President of India is chosen by an electoral college consisting of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members. Unlike the Presidential election, state legislatures have no role.
Since the NDA currently holds a comfortable majority in Parliament, Radhakrishnan is considered the clear favorite. Nevertheless, the opposition INDIA bloc is likely to field a joint candidate in order to mount a symbolic contest.
Opposition Response
On the other hand, the opposition alliance — comprising the Congress, DMK, Trinamool Congress, AAP, and other partners — has yet to announce its candidate. Reports suggest that consultations are ongoing, and a final decision is expected soon.
Interestingly, the spotlight is on DMK, given Radhakrishnan’s Tamil Nadu roots. Consequently, the opposition may attempt to counter the BJP’s move by nominating a figure with equal regional resonance.
Election Timeline
- Nomination Deadline: August 25, 2025
- Election Date: September 9, 2025
- Result Announcement: Expected the same day after counting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the nomination of CP Radhakrishnan reflects BJP’s blend of strategy and symbolism. On one side, it strengthens the NDA’s parliamentary advantage; on the other, it signals the party’s intent to broaden its base in South India. Although the numbers favor the ruling alliance, the contest will nonetheless shape political narratives and provide momentum ahead of future state and general elections.
