Who is C. P. Radhakrishnan?

C. P. Radhakrishnan is an Indian politician serving as the 15th Vice President of India since 12 September 2025. He previously served as a Governor, Member of Parliament and the President of BJP Tamil Nadu.

Early Life & Education

Radhakrishnan was born on 4 May 1957 in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, to C. K. Ponnusamy and K. Janaki. He belongs to the Gounder community.
He graduated with a BBA from V. O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi.

Early Political Involvement

• He joined RSS and Bharatiya Jana Sangh at the age of 16.
• In 1974, he became part of the Jan Sangh State Executive Committee in Tamil Nadu.
• With the formation of BJP in 1980, he played active roles in the party’s expansion.

Member of Parliament — Coimbatore (1998–2004)

• Won Lok Sabha elections in 1998 and 1999
• Represented BJP during the coalition era
• Addressed UN General Assembly (2003)
• Part of Finance and PSU Parliamentary committees

BJP Tamil Nadu President (2004–2006)

• Strengthened the party’s presence in Tamil Nadu
• Led a massive 93-day Rath Yatra promoting unity, river-linking & social reforms
• Supported BJP’s growth in Kerala

Organizational Roles (2010–2022)

• BJP National Executive Member
• Chairman of Coir Board (2016–2020)
• Contested general elections in 2014 & 2019 (strong performance but unsuccessful)

Governorship Roles (2023–2025)

Vice President of India (2025–Present)

• Nominated by NDA after VP Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation
• Won election on 9 September 2025 with 452 votes
• Sworn in on 12 September 2025
• Also serves as Chairman of Rajya Sabha

Personal Life

C. P. Radhakrishnan is married to R. Sumathi, whom he wed on 25 November 1985, and the couple has two children. Beyond his political responsibilities, he has always remained passionate about sports and fitness, actively pursuing long-distance running while also enjoying cricket, table tennis and volleyball.