Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday personally called Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, urging him to extend the DMK’s support to the NDA’s Vice-Presidential candidate, CP Radhakrishnan.
The BJP leadership tasked Singh with coordinating with key opposition figures, and he reached out as part of the NDA’s strategy to build a broad consensus behind Radhakrishnan.
NDA’s Candidate from Tamil Nadu
The BJP recently announced CP Radhakrishnan as its Vice-Presidential nominee after consultations between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, and senior leaders.
Radhakrishnan, 67, currently serves as the Governor of Maharashtra. He previously represented Coimbatore twice in the Lok Sabha and has long been associated with the RSS and the BJP’s organisational network.
Party leaders describe him as a grassroots figure with a clean political record and strong administrative experience.
BJP sources said Rajnath Singh’s call with Stalin remained cordial. Singh highlighted Radhakrishnan’s political journey and contributions as a parliamentarian and Governor, while appealing for the DMK’s cooperation.
The NDA is keen to project Radhakrishnan as a consensus candidate, emphasising his Tamil Nadu roots and wide acceptability.
JP Nadda earlier appealed to all parties for a unanimous election, stressing that Radhakrishnan’s nomination reflects the NDA’s commitment to recognising leaders from southern India in top constitutional roles.
DMK’s Role Could Prove Decisive
The ruling DMK, with its strong parliamentary presence, could play a decisive role in the Vice-Presidential elections.
While the opposition INDIA bloc has not formally declared its position, political observers say DMK’s support will determine whether Radhakrishnan faces a contest or secures an unopposed victory.
With the Vice-Presidential election on September 9, Rajnath Singh and senior BJP leaders plan further outreach to opposition parties.
The NDA is aiming for a smooth election process and hopes to consolidate cross-party support for Radhakrishnan’s candidature.
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
