NDA Picks CP Radhakrishnan as Vice Presidential Nominee

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has officially announced Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as its candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election scheduled for September 9. The decision was finalised on Sunday during a meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Parliamentary Board, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

BJP president JP Nadda, addressing the media after the meeting, said that the nomination was made after “extensive consultations with NDA allies.” He added that the BJP had also reached out to opposition parties, in the hope of securing a consensus candidate for the second-highest constitutional office in the country.

Opposition’s Role and Search for Consensus

Nadda revealed that opposition leaders had indicated their decision would depend on the individual nominee rather than political alignments. “We are hopeful that the Vice President will be elected by consensus,” he remarked. The BJP leadership has reportedly begun informal discussions with opposition members to rally support for Radhakrishnan’s candidacy, emphasizing his long political career and administrative experience.

The last date for filing nominations is August 22, and voting is scheduled for September 9. The vacancy for the Vice President arose after incumbent Jagdeep Dhankhar announced his resignation on July 21 citing health concerns.

CP Radhakrishnan’s Political and Administrative Career

At 68 years old, Radhakrishnan brings decades of political and administrative experience. He is currently serving as the Governor of Maharashtra and previously held charge as the Governor of Jharkhand (2023–2024), with additional responsibility for Telangana. In 2023, he also briefly served as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.

On the political front, Radhakrishnan was twice elected to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore, representing Tamil Nadu. He also served as the state president of the BJP in Tamil Nadu, making him one of the key figures in expanding the party’s base in southern India. His reputation for organizational skills and grassroots connect is seen as a factor that influenced his nomination.

Decision-Making Process by BJP Parliamentary Board

The BJP’s 11-member Parliamentary Board, the party’s apex decision-making body, met in the capital to deliberate over possible candidates. After detailed discussions, the name of Radhakrishnan was finalized.

The Board comprises senior leaders including Union Ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Sarbananda Sonowal, along with BJP veterans such as BS Yediyurappa, BL Santhosh, KLaxman, Sudha Yadav, Iqbal Singh Lalpura, and Satyanarayan Jatiya. The final choice was seen as a balance between political experience, regional representation, and organizational loyalty.

NDA’s Strategy Ahead of Election

The selection of CP Radhakrishnan underscores the NDA’s attempt to highlight inclusivity by elevating leaders from southern India into top constitutional roles. His nomination also signals the alliance’s focus on Tamil Nadu, a state where the BJP is keen to strengthen its presence ahead of future electoral battles.

Earlier this month, NDA allies had authorized Prime Minister Modi and JP Nadda to select the Vice Presidential nominee. The proposal was moved by JDU leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and seconded by TDP leader Ram Mohan Naidu, reflecting broad unity among coalition partners.

Election Timeline and Outlook

The Election Commission of India has already issued the schedule for the Vice Presidential polls. With the NDA commanding a strong majority in both Houses of Parliament, Radhakrishnan’s victory appears assured. However, the BJP leadership has expressed its preference for a smooth and uncontested election.

If elected, CP Radhakrishnan will succeed Jagdeep Dhankhar and assume the role of Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, where the Vice President presides over parliamentary proceedings. His tenure will play a crucial role in maintaining decorum and facilitating the legislative agenda of the government.

Conclusion

The NDA’s decision to field CP Radhakrishnan as its Vice Presidential candidate reflects a blend of political strategy, regional outreach, and recognition of his long-standing service to the party and the nation. With elections set for September 9 and the last date for nominations on August 22, all eyes will now be on whether the opposition agrees to a consensus or decides to field its own candidate.