New Vice-President faces test of neutrality

CP RADHAKRISHNAN’S election as the 15th Vice-President of India marks both continuity and change in the country's constitutional journey. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominee defeated Opposition candidate B Sudershan Reddy by 152 votes, underscoring the government's legislative strength and organisational discipline. For the BJP, the choice of CPR is strategic. A veteran from Tamil Nadu with strong RSS roots, he has held multiple leadership roles in the party and served two terms as a Lok Sabha MP. By elevating him to the vice-presidency, the NDA has not only rewarded loyalty and experience but also signalled its intent to project a southern face in national politics. This has implications for the BJP's larger ambition of deepening its influence in the South, where it has traditionally struggled to make electoral inroads. Modi's decision also reflects his legacy of political memory — honouring leaders whose steadfastness during the party's lean years built today's BJP.

His election also highlights the INDIA bloc's struggle to present a united front. The margin of defeat reflects not just the NDA's strength but also Opposition disunity and presumed cross-voting. For the Opposition, it is another reminder that symbolic contests cannot substitute for a coherent strategy.

The Vice-President is more than just a ceremonial figure. As ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Radhakrishnan will preside over debates in an Upper House often marked by turbulence. His challenge will be to demonstrate impartiality and fairness in conducting proceedings, despite his deep ideological affiliations. The credibility of Parliament depends on the Chair's ability to command respect across party lines. At a time when parliamentary functioning is under public scrutiny, if CPR can rise above partisan pressures, strengthen legislative debate and protect the dignity of the Rajya Sabha, his legacy will extend beyond party loyalty.