Image Source: Mint
Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, the current Governor of Maharashtra, has been named the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the Vice Presidential election 2025. A seasoned politician with over four decades of experience and a respected leader from Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan’s nomination reflects his vast political journey and leadership prowess. Here’s a detailed profile covering five essential facts about him.
Distinguished Political Career and Leadership Roles
Born on October 20, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan has been associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since his youth.
He was elected as Member of Parliament from Coimbatore twice (1998 and 1999), serving as Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee for Textiles and taking part in critical parliamentary delegations, including addressing the UN General Assembly in 2003.
From 2004 to 2007, he served as Tamil Nadu BJP President, during which he undertook a historic 93-day, 19,000 km Ratha Yatra advocating causes such as the linking of Indian rivers, instating a uniform civil code, eradicating untouchability, and combating narcotics.
He later served as BJP’s All-India In-Charge for Kerala (2020-2022) and chaired the Coir Board between 2016 and 2020, during which coir exports reached record heights under his leadership.
Extensive Experience as Governor
Radhakrishnan was appointed Governor of Jharkhand in February 2023 and served until July 2024. During this tenure, he conducted extensive tours across all 24 districts, fostering direct engagement with citizens and local officials.
In March 2024, he was given additional charges as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
Since July 31, 2024, he has been serving as the Governor of Maharashtra, adding a critical constitutional role to his portfolio.
Focus on Grassroots and Public Welfare
Known for his hands-on approach, Radhakrishnan’s tours in Jharkhand demonstrated his commitment to reaching out to the grassroots, ensuring that governance and developmental programs resonate with people’s needs.
His leadership style blends traditional political activism with administrative responsibility, exemplified by his history of Padayatras and Yatras advocating social causes.
Personal Background and Attributes
Radhakrishnan holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Chidambaram College, Tamil Nadu.
He has been a keen sportsperson, excelling in table tennis, cricket, volleyball, and long-distance running during his college years, traits reflecting discipline and perseverance.
He is widely regarded as a respected and senior BJP leader from South India, often recognized for his steady demeanor and deep political acumen.
Role as NDA’s Vice Presidential Candidate
The NDA’s choice of Radhakrishnan as the Vice Presidential candidate for 2025 underscores his standing within the party and his acceptability across diverse regions, particularly in South India.
Union Minister JP Nadda emphasized his vision for a unanimous election, signaling efforts to build cross-party consensus ahead of the February 2026 polls.
The Vice Presidency became vacant following the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar in July 2025, adding urgency to the selection of a unifying figure with a rich administrative and political background.
Conclusion
CP Radhakrishnan’s journey from a grassroots activist and parliamentarian to governor and now Vice Presidential candidate illustrates a career marked by steadfast dedication to public service and political leadership. His rise within the BJP and his governance experience position him as a senior statesman expected to play a pivotal role in India’s constitutional and political framework.
Sources: Raj Bhavan Maharashtra, Economic Times, NDTV, Deccan Herald
Advertisement
Advertisement
