Hey learners,
On September 9, 2025, C.P. Radhakrishnan was officially elected as the 15th Vice President of India, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar who resigned in July due to health issues.
- Election Result: Radhakrishnan, the NDA nominee and current Governor of Maharashtra, secured 452 preferential votes, while his opponent, Justice B. Sudershan Reddy, representing the INDIA alliance, received 300 votes.
Key Highlights of Vice President Election
- Election Date: 9 September 2025
- Reason for Vacancy: Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on 21 July 2025 citing health concerns. Until the election, Deputy Chairperson Harivansh Narayan Singh has been acting as Chair of the Rajya Sabha.
- Electoral College Turnout: Approximately 98%, with 752 valid votes cast out of 767—15 ballots were invalid.
- Significance of Role: As Vice President, Radhakrishnan assumes the second-highest constitutional position in India and chairs the Rajya Sabha; he will act as President if the position becomes temporarily vacant.
About CP Radhakrishnan
- Political Journey: Radhakrishnan began his public life as an RSS volunteer, served as Coimbatore MP, led BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit, and served as Governor of Maharashtra & Jharkhand.
- Ideological Background: Known for his RSS roots and moderate, non-confrontational demeanor, he was seen as a unifying pick by the NDA.
- Support and Recognition: Leaders from Maharashtra’s Mahayuti alliance—such as CM Devendra Fadnavis, Dy CMs Eknath Shinde & Ajit Pawar—congratulated him, lauding his governance-focused track record.
(FAQs)
1. Who is the current Vice President of India in 2025?
- The incumbent Vice President is C.P. Radhakrishnan, elected on 9 September 2025.
2. Why was the Vice President election held early?
- Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned in July due to health reasons, prompting a constitutionally required election within 60 days.
3. What is the vice-presidential election process?
- The Vice President is elected by both Houses of Parliament through proportional representation with a single transferable vote, conducted via secret ballot.
4. What is the role of the Vice President in the Rajya Sabha?
- The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, presiding over sessions and administrative duties.
5. When will the next Vice Presidential election be held?
- The new Vice President serves a full five-year term from the date of assumption in 2025. The next election is anticipated around 2030, unless the office becomes vacant earlier.
Why This Election Matters
- Swift Transition: The quick electoral response ensured constitutional continuity and upheld democratic norms.
- Political Stability: Radhakrishnan’s moderate image and broad support from NDA members reinforced parliamentary stability.
- Significant Turnout: High voter participation within Parliament demonstrated strong political engagement for constitutional posts.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | 9 September 2025 |
| Winner | C.P. Radhakrishnan (NDA) |
| Votes Secured | 452 (vs. 300 by Reddy) |
| Vacancy Cause | Resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar |
| Electoral Process | Secret ballot, single transferable vote |
| Term Start & Duration | 2025–2030 |
| Role | Vice President of India, Rajya Sabha Chairperson |