The political spotlight has turned sharply on CP Radhakrishnan after the BJP-led NDA officially declared him as its candidate for the Vice President election scheduled for 9 September 2025. Currently serving as the Governor of Maharashtra, Radhakrishnan’s nomination is being viewed as a strategic and symbolic move by the ruling alliance. His name not only strengthens the NDA’s numerical advantage in Parliament but also signals the BJP’s continued effort to expand its influence across South India.
Who is CP Radhakrishnan?
CP Radhakrishnan, hailing from Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, is a veteran BJP leader and a grassroots politician with deep connections in the RSS. His career spans decades in public life, marked by organizational skills, loyalty, and political acumen.
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Lok Sabha Career – Twice elected MP from Coimbatore (1998, 1999).
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BJP Tamil Nadu Chief – Strengthened the party base during challenging years.
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Governorship – Currently serving as Governor of Maharashtra since 2023.
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RSS Links – Longstanding member with ideological roots in the Sangh.
This blend of experience in electoral politics, organizational work, and administrative leadership makes him a natural choice for a constitutional role.
Political Context of the Nomination
The Vice-President’s election is not just about filling a ceremonial role; it carries deep political undertones. Radhakrishnan’s nomination was announced after Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation, creating a vacancy in the Rajya Sabha’s presiding office.
Why CP Radhakrishnan?
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Southern Outreach – BJP’s limited success in Tamil Nadu and Kerala has often been highlighted. Choosing a Tamil leader for a high post is a message of inclusion.
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RSS Satisfaction – His strong Sangh background keeps the ideological base satisfied.
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Clean Image – Known for integrity and a low-controversy record.
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Parliamentary Strength – NDA is numerically stronger, making his victory likely.
This nomination, therefore, is not just about one individual but a political message crafted for multiple audiences—Southern voters, the RSS cadre, and allies in the NDA fold.
Background and Past Political Journey
CP Radhakrishnan’s rise in politics is a story of perseverance. Starting from grassroots RSS work in Tamil Nadu, he moved up to take key roles in BJP’s state organization. His electoral win in Coimbatore was particularly symbolic because it came at a time when BJP had minimal presence in Tamil Nadu.
He is also remembered for his calm leadership during turbulent times in Tamil Nadu politics, including after the Coimbatore bomb blasts (1998), when BJP needed a credible face.
Even though BJP has not made major breakthroughs in Tamil Nadu elections, leaders like Radhakrishnan have ensured that the party maintained visibility and ideological commitment.
Expert Analysis
Political experts believe that CP Radhakrishnan’s nomination serves three purposes:
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South India Outreach – The BJP is strategically signaling its willingness to empower leaders from non-traditional strongholds.
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Stability and Balance – In a polarised political environment, Radhakrishnan’s soft-spoken, consensus-driven image could help in Rajya Sabha proceedings.
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Future Political Calculations – This move comes just ahead of several state elections, where BJP seeks to break regional barriers.
Prof. Ramu Manivannan (Political Scientist) notes:
“The Vice President post has been used by ruling parties to reward loyalty and signal strategy. CP Radhakrishnan is both—a loyalist with deep ideological roots and a South Indian face who broadens BJP’s national image.”
Public and Political Reactions
The announcement has triggered wide reactions:
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BJP Leaders – Welcomed the decision as “a recognition of dedicated service.”
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RSS Circles – Expressed happiness at one of their long-time pracharaks rising to a constitutional post.
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Opposition INDIA Bloc – Yet to announce a counter-candidate but debates are ongoing about whether to contest or let it be a symbolic fight.
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Public – On social media, hashtags like #CPRadhakrishnan and #VicePresident2025 trended soon after the announcement.
Radhakrishnan himself responded with humility, stating:
“I express my gratitude to Prime Minister Modi ji, JP Nadda ji, and the NDA leadership. I assure the nation that I will work hard with full dedication.”
Social Media Buzz
The news has become a major talking point online:
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Twitter/X – Political commentators highlighted how the BJP is using this nomination to eye Tamil Nadu’s political space.
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Facebook – Supporters shared old speeches of Radhakrishnan from Coimbatore.
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YouTube – Several channels streamed live discussions about whether this nomination would impact Tamil Nadu’s 2026 assembly elections.
Interestingly, some memes also emerged, pointing out that BJP’s Vice President candidates often become symbolic representatives of regions where the party wants to grow.
Timeline & Future Outlook
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August 16, 2025 – NDA officially nominates CP Radhakrishnan.
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August 25, 2025 – Filing of nominations deadline.
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September 9, 2025 – Voting and counting in Parliament.
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Post-Election – If elected, Radhakrishnan will preside over the Rajya Sabha and play a key role in maintaining order during crucial legislative debates.
The big question now: Will the opposition INDIA bloc field a candidate to make this a contest, or will they allow a smooth election?
Conclusion
The nomination of CP Radhakrishnan is both a recognition of his decades-long service to the party and a political statement aimed at strengthening BJP’s southern strategy. His clean image, grassroots experience, and ideological alignment make him a strong candidate. With the NDA’s numerical strength in Parliament, his path to becoming the next Vice President of India looks nearly certain.
For the BJP, however, the significance goes beyond numbers. This move projects the party’s intent to expand its national footprint and empower leaders from diverse regions.