C. P. Radhakrishnan has become one of the most talked-about political figures in India after being elected as the 16th Vice President of India in September 2025. His victory in the vice-presidential election against B. Sudarshan Reddy has brought him into the national spotlight.
From his early association with the RSS and BJP to serving as a two-time MP, state BJP president, multiple governorships, and finally the Vice Presidency, Radhakrishnan’s journey reflects dedication, resilience, and decades of public service.
In this article, we discuss his early life, political career, governorships, achievements, and rise to the Vice Presidency of India.
Let’s have a look at our Vice President
Early Life and Education
- Born in the year 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu.
- Parents: C. K. Ponnusamy (father) and K. Janaki (mother).
- Education: Holds a BBA degree from V. O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi.
- A talented sportsman
- Married to R. Sumathi (since 1985), and has two children.
Association with RSS and BJP
- Joined RSS and Bharatiya Jana Sangh at the age of 16.
- Became a member of the Jan Sangh’s state executive committee in 1974.
- Joined the BJP in 1980, worked closely with Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Political Career
- Lok Sabha Member (Coimbatore):
- Elected in 1998 and 1999, winning by huge margins.
- Victory came soon after the 1998 Coimbatore bombings, showing strong public support.
- Defeated prominent DMK and CPI leaders during his tenure.
- Represented India at the UN General Assembly (2003) on humanitarian relief.
- Served on key parliamentary committees: PSUs Committee and Finance Consultative Committee.
- BJP State President (Tamil Nadu, 2004–2006):
- Launched a 93-day Rath Yatra across Tamil Nadu.
- Advocated river-linking projects, eradication of untouchability, and anti-terrorism campaigns.
- Helped strengthen the BJP’s presence in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Later Political Engagements:
- Contested Lok Sabha elections in 2004, 2014, and 2019, finishing as the top BJP candidate in Tamil Nadu.
- Arrested in 2012 for protesting against the assault on an RSS activist.
- Served as Chairman of the Coir Board of India (2016–2020).
- Member of the BJP National Executive.
His Service as a Governor(2023–2025)
- Governor of Jharkhand – Appointed in February 2023.
- Additional Charge (2024):
- Governor of Telangana.
- Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
- Governor of Maharashtra – Assumed office in July 2024 before moving to the Vice Presidency.
How did he become Vice President
- Nominated by NDA in August 2025 after the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.
- Supported by AIADMK, JD(U), NCP, TDP, Shiv Sena, YSRCP, and other allies.
- Faced B. Sudarshan Reddy (INDIA alliance candidate) in the election.
- Elected Vice President of India on 9 September 2025 with 452 votes, defeating Reddy by 152 votes.
- Currently serves as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Personal Life and Interests
- Member of Lions Clubs International.
- Enjoys sports and remains connected to grassroots-level social work.
Electoral History (Highlights)
- 1998 (Coimbatore): Won
- 1999 (Coimbatore): Won
- 2004 (Coimbatore): Lost
- 2014 (Coimbatore): Second place
- 2019 (Coimbatore): Lost
- 2025 (Vice Presidential Election): Won
C. P. Radhakrishnan’s journey from being an RSS worker and two-time MP from Coimbatore to holding multiple governorships and finally becoming the Vice President of India in 2025 reflects his decades of dedication, discipline, and public service. He remains a respected leader known for his clean image and commitment to national progress.
