Overview

In a significant political development, C.P. Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 17th Vice President of India on September 9, 2025. Backed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Mr. Radhakrishnan won by a margin of 152 votes against the Opposition’s joint candidate, Justice B. Sudershan Reddy.

This election witnessed 98.2% voter turnout, with 767 out of 781 eligible MPs casting their votes, reflecting the importance of the Vice-Presidential office in India’s parliamentary democracy.

Election Results at a Glance

Winner: C.P. Radhakrishnan (NDA)

Votes Secured: 452 first preferential votes

Opponent: Justice B. Sudershan Reddy (Opposition)

Votes Secured: 300

Invalid Votes: 15

Abstentions: 14 MPs

Electoral College Strength: 781 (due to vacancies in both Houses)

Voter Turnout: 98.2% (767 MPs voted)

Cross-Voting and Political Impact

The NDA was expected to win with a comfortable margin given its strength of 439 MPs. However, the final tally indicated that at least 13 extra votes came from cross-voting by Opposition MPs.

BJP leaders claimed that around 40 Opposition MPs voted or cast invalid votes in favor of Radhakrishnan.

The Opposition called its performance a “moral victory”, noting that it managed 40% of the votes compared to just 26% in the 2022 Vice-Presidential election.

Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Radhakrishnan, saying: “His life has always been devoted to serving society and empowering the poor and marginalized. I am confident he will strengthen our Constitutional values and enhance Parliamentary discourse.”

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge extended wishes but emphasized the need for the new Vice President to uphold parliamentary traditions and provide equal space to the Opposition.

Justice Sudershan Reddy, in his concession, highlighted the spirit of dialogue and dissent as core democratic values.

Why Was This Election Held?

The election was necessitated by the unexpected resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2025, at the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. His resignation remains largely unexplained, adding a dramatic twist to this year’s Vice-Presidential poll.

Significance of C.P. Radhakrishnan’s Victory

Marks the 17th Vice President of India.

Reinforces the NDA’s dominance in Parliament with support from allies and cross-voting.

Sets the tone for upcoming political battles as the Opposition positions itself for future elections.

About C.P. Radhakrishnan

Former Governor of Maharashtra.

Senior BJP leader with a long political career.

Known for his focus on grassroots issues, empowerment of marginalized communities, and commitment to democratic values.

Conclusion

C.P. Radhakrishnan’s election as the Vice President of India (2025–2030) is both a political and constitutional milestone. While the NDA celebrates a decisive win, the Opposition has signaled that the ideological battle continues. The coming years will reveal how Vice President Radhakrishnan balances his role as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha and as a constitutional authority ensuring democratic debate and discourse.