‘Coimbatore’s Vajpayee’ Set for Vice Presidency: 5 Reasons Behind NDA’s Choice of CP Radhakrishnan

National News: The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has finalized its choice for the upcoming vice presidential election. Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, popularly known as CP Radhakrishnan, will contest for the second-highest constitutional post in India. His selection was announced after detailed consultations within the NDA and with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). With the alliance enjoying a clear majority in the Rajya Sabha, his victory is considered almost certain.

For days, there was speculation about several senior leaders being considered for the role, but the NDA ended all doubts by announcing Radhakrishnan’s name. The decision reflects both political strategy and recognition of his long public life. Here are the five major reasons why the party has placed its trust in him.

1. Strong RSS Foundation

Radhakrishnan’s political journey began with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He became part of the State Executive Committee of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh as early as 1974. Over the years, he grew within the BJP organization and was elected president of the Tamil Nadu unit in 2004. Belonging to the Gounder community, a socially and politically influential OBC group in Tamil Nadu, he connects deeply with grassroots voters. His career has been marked by humility, community service, and focus on uplifting weaker sections of society.

2. Impressive Political Career

Radhakrishnan holds the distinction of being one of the few BJP leaders from Tamil Nadu to win Lok Sabha elections twice. In 1998, he secured a massive victory from Coimbatore, defeating the DMK’s KR Subbiyan by a margin of around 1.5 lakh votes—a record performance for the BJP in South India at that time. He repeated his success in 1999. At a time when Congress and DMK were dominant forces in Tamil Nadu, these victories brought BJP into the spotlight in the state. More recently, he served as Governor of Jharkhand between February 2023 and July 2024 before taking charge as Governor of Maharashtra.

3. Clean Image and Outspoken Nature

Party leaders highlight his reputation as a leader who is straightforward, approachable, and free from controversies. Known for his integrity and simplicity, Radhakrishnan has always been seen as someone who can resolve issues without conflict. On being announced as the vice presidential candidate, he expressed gratitude, saying he was humbled by the trust placed in him and promised to dedicate his entire life to the service of the nation.

4. Cordial and Non-Confrontational Politics

Often described as the “Vajpayee of Coimbatore,” Radhakrishnan is admired for his cordial approach to politics. He maintains friendly relations across party lines and is respected even by his political opponents. His soft-spoken and balanced nature adds to his appeal, especially in an era where political discourse is often sharply divided.

5. Expanding BJP’s Reach in the South

The decision to project Radhakrishnan is also seen as part of the BJP’s larger plan to strengthen its base in southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu. With assembly elections due in 2026, the choice of a leader deeply rooted in the state sends a strong political signal.

Election Process

The vice presidential election will be conducted on September 9 if the opposition fields a candidate. The last date for filing nominations is August 22. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has been entrusted with the responsibility of managing the election process, while Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will act as the polling agent.

With his long service, clean record, and deep connection with the South, CP Radhakrishnan represents both experience and symbolism, making him a natural choice for the NDA.