Despite a long list of contenders from within the BJP for the Vice President’s post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has nominated C.P. Radhakrishnan, fondly called CPR, the Governor of Maharashtra, signaling a decision driven by loyalty, legacy, and regional representation.
Born in 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration. His political journey began as a grassroots activist with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and by 1974, he had become a member of the state executive committee of the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, the BJP’s ideological predecessor.
Why Modi Chose CPR
Radhakrishnan’s selection is seen as a reward not just for his unblemished reputation and cross-party goodwill but also for his unwavering loyalty during challenging times in BJP’s history. Following the 2002 Gujarat riots, the then-Chief Minister Modi faced immense political pressure even from his own party. Even then-PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee didn’t fully back Modi as the episode had cast Modi in negative light. It was only on Advani’s intervention that Vajpayee gave in allowed Modi to become the face of Gujarat elections in 2002. For that one year, many in the party distanced themselves and no BJP leader from any state would invite Modi for campaigns and rallies.
However, Radhakrishnan, then an MP from Coimbatore, went against the tide by organizing a massive public rally for Modi at VOC park just three months after the riots. This bold move is widely regarded as a pivotal moment that helped rehabilitate Modi’s public image nationally.
Modi has long valued loyalty as a cornerstone of leadership often prioritizing it over mere administrative performance and Radhakrishnan’s steadfast support during that turbulent period likely cemented his place as a trusted ally.
. @SuryahSG always reminds me how loyalty should be and often gives Shri @CPRGuv as a perfect example.
He told me that even after becoming the Hon’ble Governor of #Maharashtra, greater things awaits him. Today, he’s elevated as our @VPIndia!
Truly inspiring, as he spoke about… pic.twitter.com/ZWfGYEmkTd
— Yogesh R (@TheYogeshR) August 18, 2025
Southern Strategy and DMK Counterbalance
By nominating a leader from Tamil Nadu, the BJP sends a clear message of inclusivity and political reach into the southern states. Since assuming his role as Governor of Maharashtra, Radhakrishnan has made frequent visits to Tamil Nadu and Kerala, signaling increased political engagement in the South. His elevation is also seen as a calculated response to the DMK’s narrative in Tamil Nadu, aiming to project a strong southern face for the BJP at the national level.
CPR’s Track Record as Governor
Radhakrishnan becomes only the second sitting Governor to be nominated for the Vice Presidency the first being Shankar Dayal Sharma in 1987. While P.C. Alexander was once considered for the Presidency in 2002, his name was eventually withdrawn in favor of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
After taking charge as Governor on 31 July 2024, Radhakrishnan quickly set out on extensive state visits, engaging with a broad spectrum of society from elected officials and bureaucrats to business leaders and educators. As Chancellor of state universities, he was instrumental in enhancing educational quality and advocating for better living standards among tribal communities.
He also gained a reputation for being accessible to opposition parties, giving due attention to concerns raised on matters ranging from law and order to financial irregularities. His administration made headway in resolving long-pending nominations to the Legislative Council, demonstrating a proactive approach to governance. Notably, he maintained cordial relations not only with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis but also with Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, fostering unprecedented cooperation with the entire cabinet.
Praise from Maharashtra Leadership
Reacting to his nomination, Fadnavis stated, “Radhakrishnan’s deep understanding of constitutional and legislative matters, shaped by years of experience as an MP and governor, makes him an outstanding choice for Vice President. As Maharashtrians, we feel proud to see him elevated to such a distinguished position.”
