The BJP, by nominating Maharashtra Governor Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan for the vice-president's post, has made a calculated move that blends
hard electoral arithmetic with a deeper regional strategy. Radhakrishnan, 67, not only brings along a rich political and administrative experience, but also is said to be held in high esteem across party lines in Tamil Nadu. His candidature, political experts say, will disarm the opposition of a key political narrative, as he is the first OBC leader from South India to be named for the vice-president's office. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc is expected to begin discussions on its common candidate for the veep election at a meeting on Monday morning. The meeting is expected to be held at the office of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Even though the BJP is tipped to win the poll, the opposition has in principle decided to field a candidate to highlight ideological contrast with ruling camp. Radhakrishnan's candidature signals the BJP's renewed push to expand its footprint in Tamil Nadu and the southern states, where it has historically struggled to gain traction. An official profile circulated by the NDA projects Radhakrishnan as a leader who is eminent, knowledgeable and untainted by any legal accusations. The DMK - a key member of the Opposition bloc - called the NDA's vice president pick "a good decision". The party, however, added that it will follow the alliance's decision.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut says also praised C Radhakrishnan as "a very good personality", who is non-controversial". "He has a lot of experience. I extend best wishes to him," he told ANI.
INDIA Bloc Likely to Discuss its VP Candidate Today
The INDIA bloc has in principle decided to field a candidate for the vice president election, to highlight ideological contrast with ruling camp. The opposition bloc is likely to take up the matter during a meeting at the office of Congress president ahead of the proceedings, which will resume after the extended break for independence day.
In the past, when the UPA nominated Pratibha Patil for the post of President, the Shiv Sena - despite being part of the NDA - supported her because she was from Maharashtra.
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Similarly, UPA's Presidential candidate, Pranab Mukherjee, had the support of both Shiv Sena and the JD(U), despite the two parties being in the NDA.
And when the NDA nominated Ram Nath Kovind, JD(U) (then part of the Opposition) supported him because he was the governor of Bihar.
The Vice President post fell vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar announced sudden resignation citing health issues.
