New Delhi, Aug. 18, 2025 – The upcoming Vice Presidential election is shaping up to be a one-sided contest, with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comfortably placed to secure victory. The ruling alliance has fielded Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, a veteran BJP leader from Tamil Nadu, as its nominee.
With 422 MPs across both Houses, including NDA allies, the BJP is well above the required 394 votes. Support is also expected from non-aligned parties like YSR Congress, leaving little doubt about the outcome.
The INDIA bloc is still set to put up a challenger, more as a show of unity than in expectation of winning. Two names are reportedly in consideration: DMK MP Tiruchi Siva and former ISRO scientist Mylswami Annadurai. However, differences within the bloc remain. The Trinamool Congress has pushed for a non-political face, echoing its stance from the 2022 Vice President election when it refused to back Congress’ Margaret Alva.
Political observers say the BJP’s choice of a Tamil Nadu leader is a strategic move, forcing the DMK and its INDIA bloc allies into a tight spot – either back Radhakrishnan and risk friction with Congress, or oppose him and be branded “anti-Tamil.” DMK sources, however, dismiss the idea that the BJP’s pick makes it pro-Tamil, while privately urging allies to counter with a Tamil face of their own.
Regardless of the opposition’s candidate, the numbers are firmly on the NDA’s side. If elected, C.P. Radhakrishnan will become the third Vice President from Tamil Nadu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised him as a leader known for “dedication, humility, and intellect.”
