New Delhi: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, who hails from the Kongu region and previously represented Coimbatore in Parliament, recently drew attention in the Rajya Sabha for proudly referring to himself as a former MP from the city.
The moment came during a discussion on toll plazas, when Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari responded to a query related to toll charges. MPs currently enjoy exemption from toll fees across the country.
During the exchange, a member sought a similar exemption for former MPs as well. Gadkari said extending the benefit to former MPs would cause significant loss to the government.
At this point, Radhakrishnan intervened, saying he too was a former MP and that the benefit should be extended to them. Gadkari replied that as the presiding officer and the Vice President, Radhakrishnan already had the privilege.
Following the exchange, Tamil Nadu MPs were heard remarking that even after becoming Vice President, Radhakrishnan’s attachment to Coimbatore and his former MP identity remained strong.
