Shiv Sena, NCP Extend Backing to NDA’s Vice Presidential Candidate Radhakrishnan

Mumbai, Aug 2025 : The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) key allies, Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), on Sunday formally extended their support to Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, who has been announced as the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential election.

Shiv Sena chief and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took to X to declare his party’s endorsement of the Governor’s candidacy. “On behalf of the Shiv Sena party, I announce support for the candidacy of the respected Radhakrishnan, who has long experience in parliamentary work as a Member of Parliament and deep knowledge of administrative work as a Governor,” Shinde wrote.

He further lauded the NDA’s decision, stating that by choosing Radhakrishnan, the alliance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has honored an “experienced, wise, honest, and patriotic personality.” Expressing confidence in his victory, Shinde extended best wishes for a successful tenure as Vice President, noting that his career would be “remarkable for the bright future of the country.”

NCP Voices Strong Support

Echoing similar sentiments, NCP President and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar congratulated the Governor on his nomination. In a post on X, Pawar said: “Congratulations to incumbent Maharashtra Governor Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan ji on being announced as NDA’s candidate for the Vice Presidential election. I am sure once elected, his longstanding experience and dedication will only enrich this high constitutional office.”

NCP’s Working President and Rajya Sabha MP Praful Patel also endorsed the NDA’s choice. Welcoming the decision, Patel emphasized Radhakrishnan’s contributions to public life. “On behalf of my party, the Nationalist Congress Party, and myself, we wholeheartedly support the decision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and the NDA in nominating such an experienced and respected leader. His contributions make him most suited for this august office,” Patel said.

Congratulatory Meeting at Raj Bhavan

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called on Governor Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan to personally congratulate him. Fadnavis hailed the nomination as a proud moment for Maharashtra, underscoring the Governor’s stature and experience in public service.

With the backing of BJP allies Shiv Sena and NCP, Radhakrishnan’s nomination has further consolidated NDA unity ahead of the Vice Presidential election. Political observers believe his wide parliamentary experience, combined with his gubernatorial tenure, strengthens his credentials for the nation’s second-highest constitutional office.