PM Modi Welcomes CP Radhakrishnan as Rajya Sabha Chairperson, Calls Him “An Inspiration and a Guide”

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended a warm welcome to Vice President CP Radhakrishnan as he assumed charge as the new Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, marking the start of the Winter Session of Parliament. Praising the newly elected Vice President, PM Modi highlighted Radhakrishnan’s humble background and lifelong commitment to public service.

Addressing the House, PM Modi said, “Respected Chairman, the winter session is beginning today and it is a proud moment for all members of the House… On behalf of the House, I heartily congratulate you. And I wish you all the best.” He added that members of the Upper House would uphold the dignity of the Chair and the traditions of the Rajya Sabha.

Reaffirming his confidence in the House, the Prime Minister said, “I assure you that all the members sitting in this House, while maintaining the dignity of the Upper House, will always take care of your dignity as well. I assure you that they will maintain decorum.”

PM Modi underscored Radhakrishnan’s roots and dedication: “Our Chairman comes from a simple family, a farmer’s family, and he has dedicated his entire life to social service… The political field has been one aspect of it, but the mainstream has been social service. He is an inspiration and a guide for all of us who are interested in social service.”

CP Radhakrishnan, who was elected Vice President in September, defeated joint Opposition candidate and former Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy, securing 452 votes against the INDIA bloc nominee’s 300 votes. The Vice President serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.

The election was held after former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on July 21 due to health concerns.