Introduction
C P Radhakrishnan stands as one of the senior-most leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in South India, with an illustrious political journey that spans over four decades. Renowned for his grassroots activism, unwavering association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and high administrative roles, Radhakrishnan has now been chosen as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for Vice President of India in the 2025 election—a significant milestone in his career.
Early Life and Strong RSS Roots
Born on May 4, 1957, in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, C.P. Radhakrishnan was drawn to public life early, joining the RSS at just 16 in 1973. This foundational association with the RSS not only shaped his ideological beliefs but also set the stage for his subsequent work in the Janata Party and eventually the BJP. His deep-rooted involvement in the RSS became the bedrock of his political conviction and commitment to national causes.
Political Journey: Lok Sabha Success and BJP Leadership
- Lok Sabha Triumphs: Radhakrishnan entered Parliament in 1998, representing Coimbatore, and won re-election in 1999. These victories came on the heels of the Coimbatore bombings, as he rallied community support for peace and security. His 1998 win was especially striking with over 1.5 lakh votes, and the 1999 margin stood at 55,000—a testament to his deep local connect.
- Party Leadership: He became BJP’s Tamil Nadu president from 2004 to 2007, spearheading a 93-day, 19,000km “Ratha Yatra” promoting social causes like river-linking, anti-untouchability drives, and anti-terrorism campaigns.
- Alliance Builder: Radhakrishnan played a pivotal role in rebuilding BJP’s alliances in Tamil Nadu when the DMK withdrew support in 2004.
Roles in Administration and National Politics
- Parliamentary Impact: Served as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Textiles, and member of key committees on PSUs and Finance. He was part of the Indian parliamentary delegation to the 2004 UN General Assembly and the first delegation to Taiwan.
- Coir Board Chairman (2016–2020): Oversaw record exports worth Rs 2,532 crore.
- BJP In-Charge for Kerala (2020–2022): Focused on strengthening the party’s organizational base in another southern state.
Constitutional Roles: Governor and National Leadership
- Governor of Jharkhand (2023): Proactively toured all 24 districts, engaging directly with citizens and officials.
- Governor of Maharashtra (since July 2024): Currently leads the largest state by area in India, entrusted with significant constitutional responsibilities.
- Additional Charge: Held temporary offices as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
Vice Presidential Nomination: A New Chapter
In August 2025, the NDA unanimously nominated C.P. Radhakrishnan as its official candidate for the Vice President of India after the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar. His long-standing RSS and BJP roots, integrity, and decades of legislative and executive experience stand out as major reasons for this selection. This marks a recognition of both his organization-building skills and his steadfast commitment to national and party ideals.
Legacy of Dedication and Ideological Consistency
C.P. Radhakrishnan’s political journey is inseparable from his lifelong RSS association—beginning as a swayamsevak and rising to a national figure in the BJP. Even after electoral setbacks in later Lok Sabha races, his reputation as a consensus builder, able administrator, and “Modi of Tamil Nadu” has only grown. His vice presidential candidacy not only spotlights his personal achievements but also underlines the BJP’s focus on fostering southern leaders in pivotal roles.
Conclusion
With an unwavering foundation in the RSS, decades of leadership in the BJP, and proven administrative capabilities, C.P. Radhakrishnan’s journey exemplifies commitment to public service and national development. His nomination as NDA’s Vice President candidate cements his legacy as a key architect of the party’s expansion in South India and a respected national leader poised for one of India’s highest constitutional offices.