C P Radhakrishnan Nominated for Vice President: BJP's OBC, South India Strategy in Action
August 17, 2025
The NDA's Vice Presidential candidate is anticipated to be from the ruling party with strong ideological ties to the BJP and RSS, with Prime Minister Modi having the final say on the candidate, whose nomination is expected to be filed by August 21.
This political development was reported by CNBC-TV18 and is part of broader preparations ahead of the election.
Radhakrishnan's elevation as the second OBC leader and the first from South India to be nominated for Vice President marks a milestone for his community and Tamil Nadu, reflecting BJP's regional and social outreach.
Local BJP leaders in Tamil Nadu have lauded his nomination, emphasizing his nationalism, integrity, and service, and see it as a proud moment for the state.
Prime Minister Modi has praised Radhakrishnan for his dedication, humility, and grassroots work, expressing confidence in his ability to serve as Vice President, highlighting his legislative expertise and community service.
C P Radhakrishnan, born in 1957 in Tamil Nadu, is currently serving as the Governor of Maharashtra, with a distinguished political career including roles as Governor of Jharkhand, Telangana, and Puducherry, and as an MP and BJP leader.
He began his political journey as an RSS swayamsevak in 1974, later becoming a member of the Bharatiya Janasangh's State Executive Committee, and has been recognized for his grassroots connect and political adaptability.
Radhakrishnan has also held significant positions such as Chairman of the Coir Board from 2016 to 2020, overseeing exports worth Rs 2,532 crore, and has represented India internationally at the UN and in delegations to Taiwan.
His nomination for the Vice President's post is part of BJP's broader strategy to consolidate experienced leadership and regional representation, with the NDA expected to have a majority of votes.
The NDA currently holds around 422 votes in Parliament, well above the 394 needed for victory, giving them a significant majority in the upcoming election scheduled for September 9.
BJP leader JP Nadda has expressed hope to negotiate with opposition parties for support to ensure an unopposed election, although opposition parties have indicated they will field their own candidate.
Senior NDA leaders, including Union Ministers and Chief Ministers of NDA-ruled states, are expected to publicly support the nominee, demonstrating political strength.
Prime Minister Modi, along with other top leaders, will attend a BJP Parliamentary Board meeting on August 17 to finalize the NDA's candidate for the Vice Presidential election.
Summary based on 15 sources
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Sources

The Times Of India • Aug 17, 2025
Vice president elections: BJP announces CP Radhakrishnan as its candidate; INDIA bloc or NDA who has the numbers?
The Times Of India • Aug 17, 2025
Who is CP Radhakrishnan? Meet NDA candidate for Vice-Presidential election - here's all you need to know
Business Standard • Aug 17, 2025
NDA announces CP Radhakrishnan as candidate for Vice Presidential election
The New Indian Express • Aug 17, 2025
CP Radhakrishnan: Rise of a tested, trusted swayamsevak and BJP’s V-P candidate