The political landscape of Maharashtra witnessed a major development on Thursday, September 11, 2025, when C.P. Radhakrishnan, the Governor of Maharashtra, officially demitted office following his election as the next Vice President of India. In a swift constitutional arrangement, Acharya Devvrat, the Governor of Gujarat, has been entrusted with the additional charge of Maharashtra until a permanent appointment is made.

Background: Transition in Raj Bhavan

C.P. Radhakrishnan, who took over as the Governor of Maharashtra in February 2023, has been elevated to the position of Vice President of India, the second-highest constitutional office in the country. His resignation from the gubernatorial role was a constitutional necessity, paving the way for a temporary arrangement.

To ensure seamless governance and continuity, President of India directed that Acharya Devvrat, the incumbent Governor of Gujarat, will take on the additional responsibilities of Maharashtra Governor until further orders.

Acharya Devvrat’s Profile

Acharya Devvrat has had a distinguished career as a social reformer, educationist, and administrator. Prior to serving as Gujarat’s Governor since July 2019, he was the Governor of Himachal Pradesh. Known for his commitment to education reforms, natural farming, and Gandhian principles, Devvrat has been respected across political and social circles.

By assigning him charge of Maharashtra, the central leadership has shown confidence in his administrative abilities and his capacity to oversee two crucial states simultaneously.

Maharashtra’s Political Context

Maharashtra remains one of India’s most politically dynamic states, with frequent shifts in its power equations and coalition governments. The role of the Governor in such a state is not just ceremonial but often crucial in situations of:

• Government formation after elections,

• Assembly floor tests during coalition shifts,

• And ensuring constitutional balance amidst political uncertainties.

With Acharya Devvrat now holding additional charge, the state leadership will expect him to carry out his duties with impartiality and efficiency, particularly during a politically sensitive period.

C.P. Radhakrishnan’s Journey

C.P. Radhakrishnan, a veteran leader with deep roots in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), held office as the Governor of Maharashtra for over two years. During his tenure, he navigated through several complex political scenarios in the state, including government formation disputes. His election as Vice President is being seen as recognition of his long political career and experience.

As Vice President, he will also serve as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, a position that requires neutrality, parliamentary discipline, and the ability to manage diverse voices in India’s Upper House.

Importance of Additional Charge Appointments

When a state Governor vacates office due to resignation, transfer, or elevation, the President of India usually assigns another Governor the additional charge of that state. This ensures there is no constitutional vacuum in governance. Such appointments are temporary until a full-time Governor is appointed.

India has witnessed several such arrangements in the past. For example, Governors of neighboring states often get additional charges for short periods until new appointments are finalized.

Implications of This Development

1. For Maharashtra:
   The state will continue to function smoothly under the constitutional headship of Acharya Devvrat. His experience as Gujarat’s Governor will help in managing the administrative responsibilities of Maharashtra as well.

2. For Gujarat:
   Though Devvrat will continue to hold charge of Gujarat, his dual responsibility may require careful time management. Fortunately, the day-to-day functioning in Raj Bhavan is largely supported by a strong administrative machinery.

3. For National Politics:
   With C.P. Radhakrishnan moving to the Vice President’s chair, this development reflects a larger political reshuffle at the top constitutional levels.

Historical Precedents of Dual Governorship

India has seen several Governors entrusted with additional charges in the past. For instance:

• In 2014, Gujarat Governor Om Prakash Kohli was given additional charge of Madhya Pradesh.

• In 2019, Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon briefly held additional charge of Bihar.

• Such precedents highlight that this is a common interim arrangement in India’s constitutional framework.

Looking Ahead

The central government is expected to appoint a full-time Governor for Maharashtra in the coming weeks or months. Until then, Acharya Devvrat will ensure that the constitutional and administrative functions of Maharashtra continue without disruption.

Meanwhile, C.P. Radhakrishnan will prepare to take oath as the Vice President of India, a role that will give him significant influence over India’s legislative and political affairs.

Conclusion

The transition at Maharashtra Raj Bhavan is a reminder of how India’s constitutional machinery ensures seamless continuity of governance even during leadership changes. With Acharya Devvrat stepping in as acting Governor and C.P. Radhakrishnan taking on a new national role, this change marks an important development in both state and national politics.

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