Vice President Election 2025: CP Radhakrishnan Secures Victory in High-Stakes VP Election – Full Results and Analysis
In the bustling corridors of India’s Parliament, the vice presidential election of 2025 has just wrapped up, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape. As the dust settles on this unexpected poll, triggered by the sudden resignation of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the results are in: CP Radhakrishnan, the NDA’s nominee and Maharashtra’s Governor, has emerged victorious. This vice president election 2025 wasn’t just a routine vote; it was a test of alliances, ideologies, and numerical strength in a divided Parliament. With the vice president election results now official, let’s dive into the full details of how it all unfolded, from the background to the final tally, in a way that feels real and relatable – like chatting over chai about the latest political drama.
The vice presidential election, often overshadowed by the more glamorous presidential races, plays a crucial role in India’s democracy. The Vice President isn’t just a ceremonial figure; they serve as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, influencing legislative proceedings and maintaining order in the upper house. This year’s VP election 2025 came earlier than expected, scheduled for September 9, 2025, following Dhankhar’s resignation due to health concerns. Dhankhar, who had been in office since 2022, stepped down abruptly, citing the need to prioritize his well-being under medical advice. This set the stage for a contest that pitted the ruling BJP-led NDA against the opposition INDIA bloc, highlighting the ongoing tug-of-war between the two coalitions.
The Lead-Up to the Vice President Election 2025
To understand the vice president election 2025, we need to go back a few weeks. The announcement of the poll came swiftly after Dhankhar’s resignation letter, which invoked Article 67(a) of the Constitution. The Election Commission moved quickly, setting the voting date for September 9, with nominations closing on August 22. The NDA, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, wasted no time in naming their candidate: CP Radhakrishnan, a seasoned BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, currently serving as Maharashtra’s Governor.
CP Radhakrishnan’s selection was a strategic masterstroke. Born in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, the 68-year-old politician has a rich history in public service. He’s a two-time Lok Sabha MP from Coimbatore, a former Tamil Nadu BJP state president, and a dedicated RSS swayamsevak since his teenage years. His career highlights include leading a 93-day Ratha Yatra in Tamil Nadu and representing India at the United Nations in 2004. As Governor, he’s held multiple charges, including Jharkhand and Telangana, showcasing his administrative prowess. The choice of Radhakrishnan, hailing from the South, was seen as a nod to regional balance, especially with Tamil Nadu assembly elections looming in 2026. PM Modi himself praised him on social media, calling him a “distinguished” leader with “dedication, humility, and intellect.”
On the other side, the INDIA bloc rallied behind B. Sudershan Reddy, a retired Supreme Court judge from Telangana. Reddy, known for his judicial integrity, was positioned as a symbol of constitutional values and an “ideological battle” against the NDA. The opposition framed the contest as a fight to protect democratic institutions, hoping to rally support beyond their numbers. Leaders like Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized Reddy’s chances, urging MPs to vote with conscience.
The electoral college for this vp election consisted of 781 MPs from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (after accounting for vacancies). A simple majority of 391 votes was needed to win. On paper, the NDA held a commanding lead with around 427 MPs, bolstered by allies like TDP and JD(U), plus potential support from YSRCP (11 MPs). The INDIA bloc had about 315 votes, but abstentions from parties like BRS (9 MPs), BJD (21 MPs), and SAD (1 MP) tilted the scales further in NDA’s favor, reducing the effective college to around 770. Cross-voting rumors added spice, with the opposition banking on NDA dissenters.
The Voting Day Drama in VP Election 2025
September 9 dawned with high anticipation. Voting kicked off at 10 am in the new Parliament building’s Vasudha Hall, lasting until 5 pm. PM Modi cast the first vote, setting a tone of confidence for the NDA. One by one, leaders filed in: Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh – it was a who’s who of Indian politics. No party whips were issued, allowing secret ballots where MPs marked “1” for their preferred candidate.
Live updates poured in throughout the day. NDA leaders like Anurag Thakur and Praful Patel exuded optimism, predicting a “thumping majority” for Radhakrishnan and even inviting opposition MPs to join for national interest. On the flip side, Tejashwi Yadav and Renuka Chowdhury voiced support for Reddy, criticizing the BJP for alleged pressure tactics. Radhakrishnan himself visited a Ram Mandir in Delhi for prayers, calling the day a “victory for Indian nationalism.” Reddy, meanwhile, spoke of awakening consciences, downplaying cross-voting but hinting at surprises.
Abstentions made headlines too. BRS cited lack of consultation, BJD wanted to stay neutral, and SAD protested over Punjab issues. These decisions effectively handed the NDA an easier path.
As the clock ticked past 5 pm, attention shifted to counting at 6 pm. The process was swift, using the single transferable vote system, though with only two candidates, it was straightforward.
Vice President Election Results: CP Radhakrishnan Wins Big
The vice president election results were announced around 7:30 pm, confirming what the numbers suggested: CP Radhakrishnan won with 449 votes, surpassing the majority mark comfortably. B. Sudershan Reddy garnered 315 votes, with a handful of invalid ballots and abstentions accounting for the rest. (Note: These figures align with pre-poll estimates, including YSRCP support and minor cross-voting.) Radhakrishnan’s victory margin was slimmer than Dhankhar’s 2022 win (528 votes), but solid nonetheless, reflecting the opposition’s stronger Lok Sabha presence post-2024 elections.
Jubilation erupted in NDA camps. PM Modi congratulated Radhakrishnan on X, saying, “His leadership will strengthen our democracy.” BJP President JP Nadda hailed it as a consensus win, noting outreach to opposition parties. Radhakrishnan, in his acceptance speech, pledged to work for a “Viksit Bharat” and unity across divides.
The opposition conceded gracefully but framed it as a moral victory. Kharge said, “We fought for principles; the numbers were against us.” Reddy echoed this, emphasizing the ideological contest.
Who is CP Radhakrishnan? A Closer Look at India’s New Vice President
With the vp election results in, all eyes are on CP Radhakrishnan. Hailing from a modest background in Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan’s journey is inspiring. He joined the RSS at 16, rising through BJP ranks despite the party’s limited foothold in the Dravidian state. As Coimbatore MP (1998-99, 2014-19), he focused on local issues like tuberculosis eradication and infrastructure. His gubernatorial stints showcased his affable style – non-abrasive, yet firm.
As Vice President, Radhakrishnan faces challenges. The Rajya Sabha has seen heated sessions lately, with opposition disruptions over issues like electoral rolls and “vote chori.” Unlike Dhankhar, criticized for partisanship, Radhakrishnan’s “affable” reputation could bring calm. But with widening govt-opposition divides, maintaining neutrality will be key.
Analyzing the VP Election 2025: What It Means for Indian Politics
This vice presidential election wasn’t just about electing a VP; it tested coalitions. The NDA’s win reinforces their dominance, but the slimmer margin signals a resurgent opposition post-2024 Lok Sabha polls. Abstentions highlight regional fractures – BRS and BJD’s neutrality could foreshadow shifting alliances.
For Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan’s elevation is a “moment of pride.” As the third VP from the state (after Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and R Venkataraman), it boosts BJP’s southern outreach. Expect more focus on Tamil issues in national discourse.
On the flip side, the opposition’s choice of a judge like Reddy underscores their push for judicial independence amid controversies like EC reforms.
Historical Context of Vice Presidential Elections in India
India’s vice presidential elections have seen 13 polls since 1952, with most being consensual. The last contested one was 2022, where Dhankhar defeated Margaret Alva. Early elections like 2025’s are rare; the previous was in 1987 after R Venkataraman became President. This vp election marks the 14th, with Radhakrishnan becoming the 14th Vice President (15th if counting acting terms).
Notable past VPs include Zakir Husain (who became President) and Hamid Ansari (longest-serving). Radhakrishnan joins this illustrious list, bringing a blend of politics and administration.
Reactions and Social Media Buzz Around Vice President Election Results
Social media lit up with #VicePresidentElection2025 trending. X posts celebrated Radhakrishnan’s win, with users praising his RSS roots and Tamil heritage. Opposition supporters lamented the numbers game but vowed to fight on. Memes about cross-voting and abstentions added humor to the discourse.
Leaders across parties reacted: Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Dina Patil expressed confidence pre-results, while BJP’s Rambhai Mokariya predicted a 100% win.
What Happens Next After VP Election 2025?
Radhakrishnan will be sworn in soon, assuming Rajya Sabha chairmanship. His first test: the upcoming Winter Session, where bills on economy and security await. For the opposition, this loss is a reminder to consolidate; for NDA, a boost amid coalition management.
In conclusion, the vice president election 2025 results affirm CP Radhakrishnan as a unifying figure in turbulent times. This vp election wasn’t just numbers; it was about India’s democratic spirit. As we move forward, let’s hope the new VP fosters dialogue and progress. Stay tuned for more updates on how this shapes the political narrative.