CP Radhakrishnan Takes Oath as India’s 15th Vice-President After Defeating Opposition Candidate

CP Radhakrishnan was sworn in as the 15th Vice-President of India on Friday at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. The oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu in the presence of several dignitaries, marking a significant political moment for the country.

1. Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan

The swearing-in ceremony took place in the historic Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan. The event was attended by political leaders, governors, and chief ministers, reflecting the importance of the occasion.

2. Leaders in Attendance

Among those present were Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. Their presence highlighted the bipartisan respect for the constitutional post.

3. NDA Nominee Secures Victory

Radhakrishnan, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominee, emerged victorious in the Vice-Presidential election by securing 452 votes. He defeated Opposition candidate and former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy, who polled 300 votes.

4. High Voter Turnout

The election, conducted on Tuesday, recorded an impressive 98.2% turnout. According to Rajya Sabha Secretary General and Returning Officer PC Mody, 767 out of 781 MPs cast their votes, showcasing strong parliamentary participation.

5. Valid and Invalid Votes

Out of the total ballots cast, 752 were found valid while 15 were declared invalid. This reduced the required majority for a win to 377 first-preference votes, comfortably achieved by the NDA candidate.

6. Support Beyond the NDA

While the NDA had the backing of 427 MPs on paper, support from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) boosted Radhakrishnan’s tally. Interestingly, he received 14 votes more than expected, sparking discussions of possible cross-voting from the Opposition side.

7. Opposition’s Candidate

The Opposition had fielded B. Sudershan Reddy, a former Supreme Court judge, in a bid to challenge the NDA’s dominance. While he garnered 300 votes, the result confirmed the ruling alliance’s numerical strength in Parliament.

8. MPs Who Abstained

As many as 13 MPs abstained from voting. This group included seven MPs from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), four from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), one from the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and one Independent MP. Their absence reduced the Opposition’s potential numbers.

9. Radhakrishnan’s Political Journey

CP Radhakrishnan, a seasoned BJP leader, has previously served as a Member of Parliament and is known for his organisational skills and loyalty to the party. His elevation to Vice-President marks a new chapter in his long political career.

10. Responsibilities Ahead

As Vice-President, Radhakrishnan will also serve as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. His role will be crucial in maintaining order and facilitating debates in the Upper House, especially at a time when parliamentary discussions are often marked by heated exchanges.

Conclusion

With CP Radhakrishnan formally taking oath, India enters a new phase of parliamentary leadership. His victory, backed by high voter turnout and cross-party support, strengthens the NDA’s influence. All eyes will now be on his performance as he takes on the dual responsibility of upholding constitutional values and steering proceedings in the Rajya Sabha.