C.P. Radhakrishnan is set to be sworn in as the 15th Vice President of India this morning at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The formal oath of office will be administered by President Droupadi Murmu, formalizing his election as the Vice President. The ceremony marks the conclusion of the constitutional process following the vice-presidential poll held earlier this month.

Election Results and Margin of Victory

In the election, Radhakrishnan, contesting as the candidate of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), secured 452 votes against his rival B. Sudershan Reddy, the Opposition’s candidate, who managed 300 votes. There were 15 invalid ballots, and the total of valid votes cast stood at 752 out of 767 votes cast by members of Parliament. More than 98% of the electoral college participated in the voting. The certificate of election was duly issued, confirming Radhakrishnan as the 15th Vice President.

Political and Constitutional Significance

Radhakrishnan will now assume the second highest constitutional office in India. Along with serving as Vice President, he will take on the role of Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament), presiding over its sessions and ensuring orderly legislative business. In the event of any vacancy in the President’s office, he is next in line to perform presidential duties as per constitutional provisions.

This transition follows the resignation of the previous Vice President, who stepped down in July due to health reasons, leaving the post vacant until now.

Profile of C.P. Radhakrishnan

Hailing from Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan has a long history in public life. Before his election, he served as Governor of Maharashtra, also having held governorships in Jharkhand, and additional charge of Telangana and Puducherry. Prior to his constitutional roles, he was elected twice to the Lok Sabha from Coimbatore. He has also been deeply associated with volunteer organisations and political movements aligned with broader ideological roots in his state and at national level.

Known for a low-key style, integrity, and administrative experience, his willingness to work across party lines has often been noted. He is also viewed as someone who brings both political knowledge and ground-level connect, especially in southern India, to this high office.

Reactions and Early Commitments

Following his victory, Radhakrishnan described his win as a triumph of “nationalistic ideology,” emphasising his intent to work for the country’s development, with a goal to contribute towards India becoming a fully developed nation by 2047. He also underscored that democracy thrives on both ruling parties and opposition working in harmony, and that constitutional values must be upheld.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other senior political leaders, congratulated him, expressing confidence in his abilities to strengthen parliamentary discourse and preserve constitutional dignity. The opposition’s candidate accepted the result, wishing Radhakrishnan well in his new role.

Administrative Arrangements and Oath Ceremony Details

Ahead of the oath, administrative arrangements are in place. The formal ceremony is to begin in the morning at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Invitations have been sent out to senior leaders, Governors, Union ministers, members of both Houses of Parliament, and other dignitaries. After taking oath, Radhakrishnan will relinquish his previous post as Governor of Maharashtra, triggering further changes in gubernatorial assignments until permanent appointments are made.