Who Can Win Vice Presidential Election 2025? A High-Stakes Battle Between NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan and INDIA Bloc’s B Sudershan Reddy

Vice Presidential Election 2025: India’s 2025 Vice Presidential election, scheduled for September 9, has emerged as a compelling political contest between the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) CP Radhakrishnan and the opposition INDIA bloc’s B Sudershan Reddy. While the NDA appears to have a decisive numerical advantage, this election represents more than just a constitutional formality—it’s an ideological battleground with significant regional and political implications.

The Sudden Vacancy: Dhankhar’s Health-Cited Resignation

The election was necessitated by the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2025, citing health concerns. In his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar stated: “To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution”. This marked the first early Vice Presidential election since 1987.

However, sources suggest that Dhankhar’s departure was more complex than health issues alone, with political tensions over his handling of parliamentary proceedings potentially playing a role. His resignation came just hours after he presided over the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session, creating a significant political vacuum.

The Candidates: A South vs South Contest

CP Radhakrishnan: The NDA’s Strategic Pick

The NDA’s nominee, Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan, represents a calculated political strategy. Born in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, on October 20, 1957, Radhakrishnan brings over four decades of political experience. Key aspects of his profile include:

• Current Position: Governor of Maharashtra since July 31, 2024

• Political Journey: Two-time MP from Coimbatore (1998, 1999), former Tamil Nadu BJP President (2004-2007)

• RSS Background: Started as an RSS volunteer at age 16, joined Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1974

• Administrative Experience: Previously served as Governor of Jharkhand, Telangana, and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry

Prime Minister Modi praised Radhakrishnan’s “dedication, humility, and intellect,” noting his grassroots work in Tamil Nadu. His nomination is seen as the BJP’s strategic move to strengthen its position in Tamil Nadu ahead of the 2026 state elections.

B Sudershan Reddy: The Opposition’s Judicial Champion

The INDIA bloc’s candidate, Justice B Sudershan Reddy, represents a different political approach. Born on July 8, 1946, in Akula Mylaram Village, Rangareddy district (now Telangana), he brings a distinguished judicial career spanning five decades:

• Judicial Career: Supreme Court Judge (2007-2011), Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court (2005-2007)

• Notable Rulings: Famous for the “Kamma Bapuji” case regarding police “rowdy sheets” and his role in the Salwa Judum case

• Post-Retirement Service: First Lokayukta of Goa (2013)

• Educational Background: Law degree from Osmania University (1971)

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge described Reddy’s nomination as an “ideological battle,” emphasizing his reputation as a “consistent and courageous champion of social, economic and political justice”.

The Numbers Game: NDA’s Clear Advantage

The Vice Presidential election is conducted by an electoral college comprising all MPs from both Houses of Parliament. The current strength analysis reveals:

With strong support from regional allies like the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), which has officially endorsed Radhakrishnan, the NDA’s tally could reach 433 votes—well above the required majority of 394. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), despite the regional connection to Reddy, has confirmed support for the NDA candidate.

Regional Dynamics and Strategic Implications

This election has created interesting regional political dynamics:

Tamil Nadu Factor

Radhakrishnan’s nomination places the DMK in a difficult position, as they must choose between supporting their INDIA bloc alliance or backing a Tamil candidate. The BJP’s strategy aims to leverage Tamil pride while strengthening its position in a state where it has historically struggled.

Andhra-Telangana Connection

The opposition’s choice of Justice Reddy creates a similar dilemma for the Telugu Desam Party, forcing them to choose between regional sentiment and their NDA alliance commitment. This “South vs South” contest adds a cultural dimension to the political battle.

Key Electoral Timeline and Process

The Election Commission has established the following schedule:

Voting Details:

• Venue: Parliament House, Room F-101, Vasudha

• Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM

• Method: Proportional representation with single transferable vote system

• Ballot: Secret voting with equal value for each MP’s vote

Political Stakes and Messaging

Despite the NDA’s numerical advantage, the opposition’s decision to contest serves multiple strategic purposes:

1. Democratic Principle: Ensuring the ruling party doesn’t receive a walkover

2. Opposition Unity: Demonstrating INDIA bloc cohesion at a crucial time

3. Ideological Statement: Positioning the election as a battle between political expediency and constitutional values

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s support for Justice Reddy, citing his 52-year commitment to carrying the Constitution in his pocket, underscores the opposition’s emphasis on constitutional values versus political calculations