Historic Victory: C.P. Radhakrishnan Elected as India’s 15th Vice President in Narrow Contest

Unprecedented Early Election Leads to Historic Victory

India held an early vice presidential election on September 9, 2025, following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar due to health concerns – marking the first early election for this office since 1987.

In a closely watched contest, NDA candidate C.P. Radhakrishnan emerged victorious, winning by a margin of 152 votes – the narrowest result in the past two decades.

Electoral Process and Participation

Members of Parliament participated in the voting process, with a remarkable turnout of 98.2% as 767 MPs cast their ballots. Of these, 752 votes were valid while 15 were deemed invalid.

The election was conducted through a secret ballot under the proportional representation system using the single transferable vote method. With the NDA commanding 425 MPs against the opposition’s 324 MPs in the 781-member electoral college, Radhakrishnan’s victory was achieved above the majority mark of 391.

Political Reactions and Future Implications

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Radhakrishnan, noting that “his life has always been devoted to serving society and empowering the poor and marginalised.” The Prime Minister expressed confidence that Radhakrishnan would be an outstanding Vice President who will strengthen Constitutional values and enhance Parliamentary discourse.

The opposition candidate, B. Sudershan Reddy, gracefully accepted the outcome, stating, “I humbly accept the outcome with abiding faith in the democratic processes of our great republic. Though the result is not in my favour, the ideological battle continues with ever greater vigour.”

The election witnessed some interesting developments, including reported cross-voting in favour of Radhakrishnan, with BJP leaders claiming that at least 15 opposition members voted for the NDA nominee.