NDA Bets on Radhakrishnan for Vice President Role
Table of Contents
Background & Political Carrer
C. P. Radhakrishnan, NDA’S strong Vice Presidential Pick full name Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, was born in 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu. He entered the RSS at a mere 16 years old and gained entry into the Jan Sangh state executive committee in 1974. He was both the Coimbatore Lok Sabha MP in 1998 and 1999 and won by a landslide. Between 2004 and 2007, he served as Tamil Nadu BJP President, during which time he spearheaded programs such as the Rath Yatra, river-linking schemes, advocacy for zero untouchability, and emphasizing anti-terrorism activities. Between 2016 and 2020, he was the Chairman of the Coir Board, recording the highest-ever Indian coir exports. He has also been the BJP in-charge for Kerala, been on foreign delegations, and has been a long-serving member of the BJP national executive.
Current Positions
He was appointed Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023. Subsequently, he had additional responsibilities as Governor of Telangana and Puducherry. By July 2024, he had been appointed Governor of Maharashtra. August 17, 2025 appointed as vice president candidate of the NDA.
Vice Presidental Nomination & Recognition
On August 17, 2025, he was made the official Vice Presidential candidate of the NDA, being supported by BJP President J. P. Nadda. He thanked PM Narendra Modi and said, “I will serve the nation with my last breath.” The appointment is a strategic step to enhance BJP presence in the south and maintain regional balance. Radhakrishnan is acknowledged for his ability to bridge political divisions, having a clean image, and smooth interpersonal relations, which are his major strengths.
Why Radhakrishnan was Chosen
Experience :
His long political career spanning decades, based on RSS groundwork, has made him a suitable candidate for the gubernatorial position.
Reputation :
He enjoys a reputation of being honest, simple, and with cross-party relations.
Stratergic Fit
His appointment serves to balance North-South dynamics and enhances the BJP’s strength in Tamil Nadu.
C. P. Radhakrishnan is an experienced politician with a strong background and a dedication to serving the country.