CP Radhakrishnan Sworn In as India’s 15th Vice President: A New Chapter Begins at Rashtrapati Bhavan

In a ceremonious moment steeped in constitutional tradition, Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan was officially sworn in as the 15th Vice President of India today, September 12, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu in the presence of senior political leaders, dignitaries, and members of Parliament. The event marks a significant transition in India’s parliamentary leadership, following the resignation of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in July.

The Ceremony and Symbolism  

1. The swearing-in ceremony began at 10 am, with the timing carefully chosen based on astrological guidance deemed auspicious by advisors.  
2. The event was attended by a host of political figures including Chief Ministers, Governors, and senior NDA leaders.  
3. Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was also present, symbolizing continuity and respect for the office.  
4. Radhakrishnan, dressed in traditional attire, took the oath in Hindi, reaffirming his commitment to uphold the Constitution and serve the nation.

Electoral Victory and Political Backing  

1. CP Radhakrishnan, the NDA nominee, secured a decisive win in the Vice Presidential election held earlier this week.  
2. He received 452 votes, defeating Opposition candidate and former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy, who garnered 300 votes.  
3. Out of 781 eligible MPs, 767 cast their votes, marking a turnout of 98.2 percent.  
4. Of the 752 valid ballots, Radhakrishnan exceeded expectations by securing 14 votes more than the NDA’s projected support, sparking speculation of cross-voting from the Opposition.  
5. Additional backing came from 11 MPs of the YSR Congress Party, further cementing his victory.  
6. Thirteen MPs abstained from voting, including members from BJD, BRS, SAD, and one Independent.

Background and Legacy  

1. Radhakrishnan, aged 67, previously served as the Governor of Maharashtra and has had a long-standing career in public service and politics.  
2. Known for his grassroots connect and commitment to social empowerment, he has been a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.  
3. His elevation to the Vice Presidency is seen as a strategic move by the NDA to strengthen its southern outreach and parliamentary presence.

Prime Minister’s Message  

1. Following the election results, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Radhakrishnan and expressed confidence in his ability to uphold constitutional values.  
2. Modi highlighted Radhakrishnan’s lifelong dedication to serving marginalized communities and his potential to enrich parliamentary discourse.

Key Highlights  

- CP Radhakrishnan sworn in as India’s 15th Vice President at Rashtrapati Bhavan on September 12  
- Oath administered by President Droupadi Murmu in a formal morning ceremony  
- Radhakrishnan won the election with 452 votes against Opposition nominee B. Sudershan Reddy  
- Turnout was 98.2 percent with 767 MPs participating in the vote  
- Cross-voting speculation emerged as Radhakrishnan received 14 votes above expected tally  
- Ceremony attended by senior NDA leaders, Governors, and former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar  
- Prime Minister Modi praised Radhakrishnan’s service and constitutional commitment

Looking Ahead  

As Vice President, Radhakrishnan will preside over the Rajya Sabha and play a pivotal role in shaping legislative debates and upholding parliamentary decorum. His tenure begins at a time of dynamic political shifts and evolving governance challenges. With his experience and cross-party goodwill, Radhakrishnan is expected to bring both stability and fresh perspective to India’s upper house.

Sources: The Hindu, MSN India, Indian Daily Post, Onmanorama