CP Radhakrishnan Sworn In As India’s 15th Vice President
On Tuesday, CP Radhakrishnan secured victory in the vice presidential election, defeating the joint opposition’s nominee B Sudershan Reddy. He won the contest by a margin of 152 votes, marking a significant triumph in India’s political landscape.
New Delhi: Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan was on Friday sworn in as the 15th Vice President of India in a solemn yet graceful ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu in the majestic Durbar Hall, marking an important milestone in the nation’s political history.
The 67-year-old leader, popularly known as CP Radhakrishnan, took his oath dressed in a simple red kurta. He chose to swear allegiance in English, invoking the name of God as he formally assumed the country’s second-highest constitutional office. The event, though brief, was steeped in dignity, tradition, and symbolism, reflecting the continuity of India’s democratic journey.
Radhakrishnan’s election earlier this week was a decisive one. On Tuesday, he defeated the joint opposition nominee, B Sudershan Reddy, by a clear margin of 152 votes. The result underscored the strong backing he enjoyed from the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and its allies, while also highlighting the fractured unity within opposition ranks. His win reaffirmed the political clout of the ruling coalition in Parliament.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by senior political leaders, dignitaries, and officials. Outgoing Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also marked his presence at the occasion, making his first public appearance since formally stepping down from the position. His attendance added a touch of continuity to the proceedings, as one Vice President passed the baton to another.
In his political career spanning decades, Radhakrishnan has built a reputation as a grassroots leader with a firm commitment to public service. A two-time Member of Parliament from Coimbatore, he has been associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party for years, working tirelessly to expand its base in Tamil Nadu. His elevation to the vice presidency is seen as both a personal achievement and a political statement, signaling the importance of southern India in the national political landscape.
For many, the occasion was more than just the swearing-in of a new Vice President. It was also a reflection of India’s democratic spirit, where leaders from different regions and diverse backgrounds rise to hold the nation’s highest constitutional offices. The ceremony highlighted the resilience of democratic institutions, even in times of intense political contestation.
As Vice President, Radhakrishnan will also serve as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His role will be crucial in maintaining decorum, ensuring constructive debates, and balancing the often clashing interests of the ruling party and opposition benches. With Parliament frequently witnessing heated exchanges, expectations are high from the new Vice President to bring calm, fairness, and impartiality to the Upper House.
With his oath now taken, CP Radhakrishnan begins his tenure at a time of both opportunity and challenge. The nation will watch closely as he navigates this new chapter, blending his political experience with the responsibilities of a constitutional office that demands neutrality, wisdom, and vision.