Man of faith: On C.P. Radhakrishnan, Vice-President-elect of India

By Admin

11 Sep, 2025

On September 9, 2025, C.P. Radhakrishnan, a long-time member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), was elected as the Vice-President of India. At 68, his election marks both a personal milestone and another effort by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to deepen the linkage between its vision of nationalism and the Sangh Parivar’s ideological framework.

From RSS Cadre to National Leadership

Mr. Radhakrishnan’s political journey is one rooted in conviction rather than careerism. He joined the RSS as a teenager and by 1974, he was already a member of the Tamil Nadu Jan Sangh’s executive committee   a time when the Sangh’s presence in the State was minimal. His commitment to the cause eventually translated into electoral success, as he represented Coimbatore twice in the Lok Sabha (1998 and 1999) as a BJP candidate, supported first by the AIADMK and later by the DMK.

During his parliamentary years, he contributed to committees and even served on a special committee probing a stock market scam. He also represented India at the United Nations General Assembly, broadening his exposure to international affairs. His tenure as BJP State president (2004-2007) saw him undertake a 93-day “Ratha Yatra” promoting causes such as river linking, ending untouchability, countering terrorism, and advocating for a Uniform Civil Code   all reflective of the ideological consistency that defined his political life.

Expanding Administrative Experience

In recent years, Mr. Radhakrishnan further enhanced his stature as the Governor of Jharkhand (2023) and later Maharashtra (2024). These roles gave him valuable administrative experience, but his elevation to the Vice-President’s office is a new challenge altogether. As Vice-President, he also assumes the critical role of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha   a position that demands balance, impartiality, and political acumen.

The Rajya Sabha Challenge

Parliament, particularly the Rajya Sabha, has witnessed a weakening of its institutional role in recent years. The practice of categorizing controversial legislation as finance Bills   thereby bypassing the Rajya Sabha   has eroded its significance as a true council of States. Meanwhile, parliamentary committees, once forums for serious deliberation, have often degenerated into arenas of partisan rhetoric.

The hostility between the government and the Opposition has turned the Upper House into a battlefield rather than a platform for constructive debate. In this climate, Mr. Radhakrishnan’s task is formidable. His ideological loyalty to the RSS and BJP is well established, but his responsibility now requires him to act as a moderator, fostering dialogue and cooperation across political divides.

A Chance for Reconciliation

Known for his affable demeanor, Mr. Radhakrishnan might just be able to use his personal charm and experience to bridge divides. His past support for federalism and smoother Centre-State relations indicates that he values cooperation. If he can bring this approach to the Rajya Sabha, he could help reduce the combative hostility that has marred parliamentary functioning in recent years.

Conclusion

C.P. Radhakrishnan’s election as Vice-President is both a recognition of his long-standing ideological commitment and an opportunity for renewal in Indian parliamentary democracy. The question now is whether he can rise above partisan expectations to restore dignity, dialogue, and deliberation in the Rajya Sabha. If successful, his tenure could mark not only a personal triumph but also a crucial step toward healing India’s fractured political discourse.