📰 C.P. Radhakrishnan Becomes India’s 15th Vice President in a Nail-Biting Election

⚡ Election Night Drama

What a day for Indian democracy! I’ve been covering elections for years, but few have matched the drama of the Vice Presidential contest of 2025. When the final tally was announced, C.P. Radhakrishnan secured 452 votes, defeating Justice B. Sudershan Reddy, who managed 300 votes.

The winning margin? Just 152 votes — far narrower than what most political analysts had predicted. And that’s where the story starts to get really juicy.

🔍 Cross-Voting and the Numbers Game

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Going into the election, the opposition was expected to hold a stronger block of votes. But when the ballots were counted, the math told a different story. Clearly, there was cross-voting — opposition legislators siding with Radhakrishnan, tightening the margin and changing the outcome.

For BJP strategists, this was not just a victory but a quiet confirmation that their influence stretches deeper into opposition ranks than many assumed.

👤 The Man Behind the Win – C.P. Radhakrishnan’s Journey

Radhakrishnan’s story is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, he began his political journey as a 17-year-old RSS worker. Over the decades, he built a reputation as a grounded leader, skilled organizer, and committed party worker.

Few know that beyond politics, he was once a table tennis champion, proof of his discipline and drive. And today, that journey culminates in his elevation as Vice President of India — and with it, the role of ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

⚖️ Why This Election Was Necessary

This election wasn’t routine. It came about because of the sudden resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in July 2025 due to health reasons. His departure created a constitutional vacuum, forcing Parliament into an early Vice Presidential poll.

🏛️ Constitutional Significance

As Vice President, Radhakrishnan will also preside as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, a chamber known for fiery debates and frequent disruptions. His task won’t be easy. With fractured opposition unity and a government determined to push through reforms, parliamentary management will test his political skill and patience.

🗳️ Opposition Candidate – Justice B. Sudershan Reddy

To be fair, the opposition’s candidate — Justice B. Sudershan Reddy, a respected jurist and former Supreme Court judge — ran a dignified campaign. His candidacy symbolized the opposition’s attempt to rally around an independent, non-political figure. But the results showed how difficult it has become for opposition forces to consolidate.

🌍 Political Implications – BJP’s Southern Strategy

For the BJP, this win carries deep political meaning. Radhakrishnan’s rise underscores the party’s South India strategy, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where it has long struggled for relevance. Having a Vice President from Tamil Nadu may strengthen the party’s narrative of national inclusivity.

📜 Looking Ahead – Challenges and Responsibilities

Radhakrishnan’s tenure will be watched closely.

• Can he bring balance to the often combative Rajya Sabha?
• Will his leadership style reflect consensus-building or firmness?
• And most importantly, how will he navigate the constitutional office while coming from a deeply political background?

✍️ Journalist’s Reflection

I’ve often said politics is about stories, not just numbers. Yesterday, we witnessed the story of a man who started out as a young RSS volunteer in Tamil Nadu and is now seated in one of the highest constitutional offices in India. That arc — from grassroots to Vice President — is what keeps Indian democracy alive and fascinating.

And yes, the cross-voting drama? That’s the kind of behind-the-scenes intrigue that makes political reporting worth every minute.

📢 Final Word

C.P. Radhakrishnan’s victory is not just a personal milestone — it’s a turning point in Indian politics, Tamil Nadu’s representation at the top, and the BJP’s national strategy. Whether he can meet the expectations of his office will unfold in the months ahead.

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