NEW DELHI, Aug 20, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his full support for CP Radhakrishnan, the NDA’s nominee for Vice President, highlighting their long-standing friendship of over 40 years. Modi praised Radhakrishnan’s simple lifestyle and unwavering commitment to public service during a felicitation event at the NDA parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday.
Recalling their friendship, Modi humorously remarked, “We have been friends for over 40 years; back then, our hair was black,” indicating the depth of their bond. The Prime Minister then urged the opposition to support Radhakrishnan’s nomination, emphasizing his integrity and dedication to the nation. He also noted that Radhakrishnan, despite his love for sports, never “plays games in politics,” a subtle remark that garnered attention in political circles.
Radhakrishnan, a two-time former Member of Parliament from Coimbatore and former Tamil Nadu BJP president, is set to file his nomination papers on Wednesday, accompanied by nearly 160 MPs and Chief Ministers from NDA-governed states. Modi’s words resonated with the NDA allies, who showed enthusiastic support for the nomination.
Before Radhakrishnan filed his nomination, the NDA party had completed all the necessary paperwork on Tuesday. As a mark of respect, PM Modi felicitated him with a shawl, further solidifying his endorsement.
Radhakrishnan, like Modi, was deeply involved with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before joining the Jana Sangh and later the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His clean public record and dedication to societal welfare made him an uncontroversial and well-respected choice for the post of Vice President.
Modi also used the occasion to highlight India’s economic growth, citing the recent upgrade of India’s long-term sovereign credit rating by S&P Global Ratings. The Prime Minister pointed out that this reflects the country’s solid economic foundation and will likely encourage further investment. Modi also remarked on the positive market response following his announcement of upcoming reforms during the Independence Day speech.
In a speech covering multiple topics, Modi expressed confidence in India’s economic resilience despite challenges, such as the 50% tariff imposed by the US. He pointed to the thriving Delhi International Airport and high foreign exchange reserves as indicators of India’s strong economic position.
The BJP’s Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, also praised Radhakrishnan’s nomination. He emphasized Radhakrishnan’s clean record, stating, “There has been no controversy in his life, no corruption, no stain; he has lived a simple life, working only for society and the country.” Rijiju further stated that Radhakrishnan’s election as Vice President would bring immense pride to the nation.
While Modi’s speech celebrated Radhakrishnan’s integrity and commitment to public service, the opposition swiftly named former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy as their candidate, ensuring that the Vice-Presidential election will take place on September 9, 2025.
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