Image Source livemint
New Delhi, September 12 — Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and seasoned parliamentarian C. P. Radhakrishnan was sworn in as the 15th Vice-President of India today. The oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu at a solemn ceremony held in the historic Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union Ministers, opposition leaders, diplomats, and other dignitaries. With this, Radhakrishnan succeeds Jagdeep Dhankhar, whose term concluded recently.
In his first remarks after assuming office, Radhakrishnan expressed gratitude to the nation and emphasized his commitment to strengthening parliamentary democracy. “The Rajya Sabha represents the collective wisdom of the states and the diversity of India. I will strive to uphold the dignity of the Chair and ensure constructive debate for the nation’s progress,” he said.
Born in Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan has had a long political career spanning decades. He served multiple terms as a Member of Parliament from Coimbatore and has been closely associated with grassroots initiatives, particularly in the fields of education, entrepreneurship, and social welfare. His appointment is seen as a recognition of South India’s growing role in national politics.
The Vice-President of India also serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. As he takes charge, Radhakrishnan is expected to play a key role in maintaining parliamentary decorum, especially at a time when the Upper House has witnessed frequent disruptions.
Leaders across party lines congratulated him. Prime Minister Modi called him “a dedicated leader who will guide the Rajya Sabha with wisdom and fairness,” while opposition leaders hoped he would “uphold impartiality and encourage meaningful debate.”
With his oath, Radhakrishnan begins a five-year term as the Vice-President, marking a new chapter in India’s political journey.
