Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, a seasoned politician and a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been elected as the 15th Vice President of India in 2025. His victory in the Vice Presidential election, securing 452 votes, marks a significant milestone in his over four-decade-long political career. Radhakrishnan’s journey from a young activist in Tamil Nadu to the second-highest constitutional office in India is a testament to his dedication, strategic political acumen, and deep-rooted connection with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP. This article delves into his early life, educational qualifications, extensive political career, roles as a governor, and the details of the 2025 Vice Presidential election.
Early Life and Education
CP Radhakrishnan was born into the Kongu Vellalar Gounder community in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, a region known for its vibrant textile industry and strong community ties. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, Radhakrishnan displayed a blend of academic and extracurricular interests from a young age. He pursued his higher education at V. O. Chidambaram College in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). His academic journey was complemented by his prowess in sports, notably winning a college-level table tennis championship, which highlighted his competitive spirit and versatility.
Radhakrishnan’s early exposure to socio-political ideologies shaped his future. At the age of 17, he became actively involved with the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the BJP, and the RSS, a nationalist organization that profoundly influenced his political outlook. His early engagement with these organizations laid the foundation for a career dedicated to public service and ideological commitment.
Political Career: A Journey of Dedication
Early Political Beginnings
Radhakrishnan’s political career began in 1974 when he was elected to the state executive committee of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in Tamil Nadu. This marked his formal entry into politics, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his organizational skills and commitment to the party’s ideology. His early years were spent mobilizing support for the Jana Sangh and later the BJP in Tamil Nadu, a state where the party initially struggled to establish a strong foothold due to the dominance of regional parties like the DMK and AIADMK.
Lok Sabha Tenure and National Recognition
Radhakrishnan gained national prominence when he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from Coimbatore in the Lok Sabha elections of 1998 and 1999. His victories were significant, particularly in 1998, when the BJP formed a strategic alliance with the AIADMK, enabling the party to secure three seats in Tamil Nadu—a rare achievement in a state dominated by Dravidian politics. As an MP, Radhakrishnan was known for his articulate interventions in parliamentary debates and his focus on issues pertinent to his constituency, particularly the textile industry, which is a cornerstone of Coimbatore’s economy.
During his tenure in the Lok Sabha, Radhakrishnan served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Textiles, leveraging his understanding of the sector to advocate for policies that supported weavers and manufacturers. He also contributed to the Standing Committees on Finance and Public Sector Undertakings, showcasing his versatility in handling diverse portfolios. His work in these committees earned him respect as a parliamentarian who combined grassroots connect with policy expertise.
In 2004, Radhakrishnan represented India as part of the legislative delegation to the United Nations General Assembly. His speech on disaster assistance and humanitarian coordination was well-received, reflecting his ability to engage with global issues while representing India’s interests. This international exposure further solidified his reputation as a leader with a broad vision.
Leadership in Tamil Nadu BJP
From 2004 to 2007, Radhakrishnan served as the state president of the BJP in Tamil Nadu, a period marked by his efforts to strengthen the party’s organizational base in a challenging political landscape. One of his most notable initiatives during this time was the 19,000-kilometer, 93-day “Ratha Yatra” across Tamil Nadu. This extensive campaign aimed to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, such as water conservation, education, and rural development. The yatra not only highlighted Radhakrishnan’s commitment to public causes but also helped the BJP gain visibility in rural and semi-urban areas of the state.
Despite the BJP’s limited electoral success in Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan’s leadership was instrumental in building a cadre of dedicated workers and expanding the party’s ideological reach. His ability to navigate coalition politics and maintain cordial relations with regional parties further enhanced his stature within the BJP.
Governorship: A Multifaceted Role
Governor of Jharkhand
In February 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Radhakrishnan as the Governor of Jharkhand, a state with complex socio-political dynamics and significant tribal populations. During his tenure, Radhakrishnan adopted a hands-on approach, visiting all 24 districts of Jharkhand within his first four months in office. These visits allowed him to engage directly with local leaders, tribal communities, and citizens, addressing their concerns and promoting inclusive governance. His focus on grassroots engagement earned him goodwill among the people of Jharkhand, particularly in rural areas.
As Governor, Radhakrishnan emphasized education, healthcare, and tribal welfare, advocating for policies that aligned with the central government’s development agenda. His tenure was marked by efforts to bridge the gap between the state administration and marginalized communities, ensuring that development schemes reached the grassroots.
Governor of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry
In July 2024, Radhakrishnan was appointed as the Governor of Maharashtra, one of India’s most politically and economically significant states. Concurrently, he took on the roles of Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, showcasing his ability to manage multiple high-profile responsibilities. His tenure in these roles, though brief, was characterized by his efforts to foster cooperation between the state and central governments, particularly in areas like infrastructure development, education, and economic growth.
In Maharashtra, Radhakrishnan worked closely with the state government to promote initiatives like the Mumbai Metro expansion and coastal economic zones. In Telangana, he focused on supporting the state’s burgeoning IT and startup ecosystem, while in Puducherry, he emphasized tourism and sustainable development. His ability to balance these diverse portfolios demonstrated his administrative acumen and leadership skills.
Radhakrishnan served in these gubernatorial roles until July 2024, when he transitioned to his new role as Vice President of India, handing over his responsibilities to his successors.
Vice Presidential Election 2025
The Vice Presidential election of 2025 was necessitated by the sudden resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, who cited health reasons for stepping down. The election, held on September 9, 2025, saw CP Radhakrishnan emerge as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate. His selection was strategic, reflecting the BJP’s intent to reward a loyal and experienced leader while reinforcing its presence in southern India.
Radhakrishnan secured a commanding victory with 452 votes, defeating his opponents in a closely watched contest. The election process was smooth, with the notification released well in advance, ensuring transparency and adherence to constitutional norms. His victory was celebrated within the NDA as a testament to the coalition’s unity and organizational strength.
As Vice President, Radhakrishnan also assumes the role of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, where his experience as a parliamentarian and governor is expected to contribute to effective legislative management. His ability to navigate complex political scenarios and maintain impartiality will be crucial in this role.
Personal Traits and Legacy
CP Radhakrishnan is known for his disciplined lifestyle, rooted in the values of the RSS, and his ability to connect with people across socio-economic backgrounds. His fluency in Tamil, Hindi, and English has enabled him to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, from rural communities in Tamil Nadu to international delegates at the UN.
His political journey reflects a blend of ideological commitment and pragmatic governance. Whether as an MP, state president, governor, or now Vice President, Radhakrishnan has consistently prioritized public welfare and national development. His contributions to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, particularly in strengthening the BJP’s presence, have left a lasting impact.
Conclusion
CP Radhakrishnan’s election as the 15th Vice President of India in 2025 is a culmination of a remarkable political career spanning over four decades. From his early days as a Jana Sangh activist to his roles as a parliamentarian, governor, and now Vice President, Radhakrishnan has demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to public service. His educational background, political experience, and administrative achievements make him a fitting choice for one of India’s highest constitutional offices. As he embarks on this new chapter, Radhakrishnan’s legacy as a leader who bridges regional and national aspirations will continue to shape India’s political landscape.
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