CP Radhakrishnan, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate, has been elected as India’s next Vice President, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar. The 68-year-old BJP veteran secured a clear victory today by polling 452 first preference votes, while Opposition-backed candidate and retired Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy managed 300 votes.

The results underscored not only the NDA’s parliamentary strength but also significant cross-voting from the Opposition benches. Sources indicated that at least 19 MPs shifted their support to the NDA candidate, reflecting possible dissatisfaction within Opposition ranks. The margin of victory reaffirms the NDA’s ability to consolidate its position in Parliament ahead of crucial legislative sessions.

Radhakrishnan’s election marks another milestone in his political career, which has spanned decades of public service, including his tenure as a two-time Lok Sabha MP from Coimbatore and as a senior BJP leader in Tamil Nadu. Known for his grassroots connect and organizational skills, he has played a vital role in expanding the BJP’s influence in southern India.

The new Vice President will now preside over the Rajya Sabha, where his experience and parliamentary skills are expected to be put to the test as the government pushes its legislative agenda. Opposition candidate Sudershan Reddy’s defeat, though expected, highlights the uphill challenge for a fragmented Opposition in rallying consensus against the NDA’s numbers.