In the power corridors of Delhi, few occurrences attract as much focus as the election of India’s Vice President. On September 9, 2025, Parliament is filled with excitement as members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha get ready to vote for the 15th Vice President of India.
It’s more than just a procedure. This is a critical competition between two experienced leaders from vastly distinct origins — Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan, supported by the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), and former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy, appointed by the INDIA opposition coalition.
What’s on the line, who is backing whom, and how do the figures compare? Let’s get started
Reasons This Vice-Presidential Election Is Important
At first glance, many assume the Vice President of India mainly holds a ceremonial role. But that’s not the full story. The Vice President also presides over the Rajya Sabha, actively shaping debates and maintaining order in the upper house of Parliament. It’s a position with genuine influence, far beyond just the title.
This year’s election has an extra twist. This occurs merely two months following Jagdeep Dhankhar’s abrupt resignation, which left the position open and ignited new political strategies in Delhi. With a strong opposing coalition aiming to display its power and an NDA in a commanding position, today’s election has turned into more than merely a ballot — it’s a gauge of political partnerships
Get to Know the Candidates: CP Radhakrishnan and Sudershan Reddy
This election involves personalities just as much as it involves politics. Let’s analyze who these two leaders truly are.
CP Radhakrishnan: The Experienced BJP Leader
Radhakrishnan’s been around the political block more than a few times, honestly. He’s not just another BJP face—he’s practically part of the furniture at this point. Remember when Vajpayee was Prime Minister? Radhakrishnan held down that Coimbatore MP seat for two terms. Not bad, right? Over the years, he’s worn a bunch of hats: loyal party guy in Tamil Nadu, Governor of Jharkhand, and now—drumroll—he’s the Governor of Maharashtra as of July 2024. The guy just keeps moving up!
With years of experience and solid support from the NDA, Radhakrishnan joins today’s competition as the obvious favorite
B. Sudershan Reddy: The Lawyer Who Became a Politician
Opposite in the ring stands B. Sudershan Reddy, a distinguished jurist known for his courageous and autonomous rulings. He was a Supreme Court judge from 2007 to 2011, gaining a reputation for courage in defending constitutional principles.
Recall the significant decision that deemed the disputed Salwa Judum militia unconstitutional? That bench belonged to Reddy. He was designated as Goa’s inaugural Lokayukta, but he resigned after a few months, citing personal issues. Within the opposition INDIA alliance, Reddy symbolizes an effort to showcase integrity and autonomy in contrast to the NDA’s political power
When and where is the election scheduled?
The election is taking place in the core of Indian democracy — Parliament House, Room No. F-101, Vasudha.
- Voting hours: 10 AM to 5 PM today (September 9, 2025)
- Results: To be revealed on the same day once voting ends.
- Returning Officer: Secretary General of Rajya Sabha, PC Mody
In summary, it will be a rapid political thriller, with the result determined before night falls in Delhi
Who Is Eligible to Vote in the Vice-Presidential Election?
In contrast to a general election where you and I vote, the Vice President is selected by a unique electoral college consisting of:
- 233 representatives chosen for the Rajya Sabha
- 12 Rajya Sabha members nominated
- 543 chosen representatives of the Lok Sabha
This results in a total of 788 members. Currently, there are six empty seats in the Rajya Sabha and one in the Lok Sabha, making today’s electoral roll total 781 members.
Interesting tidbit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the initial voter, paving the path as MPs queue up to submit their votes.
The Numeric Challenge: Who Has the Advantage?
Ultimately, politics comes down to numbers. Let’s analyze the figures:
- Victory threshold: 391 votes (over half of 781)
- NDA count: 293 MPs from the Lok Sabha + 129 MPs from the Rajya Sabha = 422 MPs supporting Radhakrishnan.
- Opposition power: INDIA coalition and partners lag considerably, despite consolidated backing for Sudershan Reddy.
On record, the NDA candidate possesses the figures to succeed easily. However, that doesn’t imply the opposition won’t attempt to turn this into a tightly contested battle to demonstrate solidarity and strength
Who Is Assisting Whom?
This is the point where alliances become intriguing.
Backing for NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan
- BJP (naturally)
- JD(U)
- TDP
- Shiv Sena (Shinde group)
- NCP (Ajit Pawar group)
- Along with various other NDA partners
With this roster, the NDA possesses a strong electoral base in its possession
Backing for INDIA Bloc’s Sudershan Reddy
- Congress
- DMK
- Rashtriya Janata Dal
- JMM
- TMC
- Parties on the left
- Uddhav Thackeray’s faction of Shiv Sena
- AAP
- AIMIM
This creates a varied alliance, yet it still falls short of the halfway point
Individuals Opting to Withhold Participation
Notably, certain regional parties have chosen to refrain:
- Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS)
- Biju Janata Dal (BJD)
- Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)
Their lack of presence makes the figures even more advantageous for the NDA
How Does the Vice President Make Money and What Benefits Accompany the Position?
You might be surprised to learn that the Vice President of India does not actually earn a salary for the role of Vice President. Rather, the compensation is derived from their role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- Compensation: ₹4 lakh per month
- Benefits: Complimentary lodging, healthcare services, travel benefits (air and rail), phone services (landline and mobile), security protection, and personal assistants.
Thus, although the Vice President may formally be the “No. 2” constitutional figure, the advantages ensure the position is as pleasant as it is influential
The Political Importance of This Competition
Certainly, the NDA appears poised for victory. However, consider the broader context:
- A win for the NDA strengthens its dominance in Parliament and indicates stability.
- For the opposition, regardless of a loss, the struggle itself strengthens INDIA bloc cohesion leading up to upcoming elections.
Consider it akin to a cricket game where one team is expected to triumph — the genuine thrill resides in how well the underdog plays and if they can unsettle the favored team
What to Anticipate Following the Outcomes
By tonight, India will officially welcome its new Vice President. Should CP Radhakrishnan emerge victorious, it will add another achievement to the BJP’s record and ensure the ruling coalition maintains its influence in Parliament’s operations.
Should Sudershan Reddy, against all expectations, achieve an upset, it would significantly alter the political scene, invigorating the opposition in unprecedented ways
Read More: Maharashtra Assembly Polls: Railway Investment, Political Rallies, and Key Developments
Final thoughts
The 2025 Vice-Presidential election might not be a close contest regarding figures, yet it certainly holds significance. It’s centered on symbolism, cohesion, and equilibrium of power within the core of India’s democracy.
With CP Radhakrishnan holding the burden of NDA’s figures and Sudershan Reddy embodying the opposition’s vigorous contest, today’s vote serves as a reminder that Indian politics is always filled with drama.
By the end of the day, we’ll find out who will take on the role of India’s 15th Vice President — and what implications that holds for the upcoming challenges in Parliament
