Naidu will create new heights in Parliamentary democracy: Dharmendra Pradhan

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday congratulated M. Venkaiah Naidu for being elected as the 13th Vice President and expressed confidence that the former union minister will create new heights in Parliamentary democracy.

Speaking to ANI, Pradhan said "I Congratulate Naidu on his win. Naidu will create new heights in Parliamentary democracy. I'm thankful to the Parliamentarians who have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's choice and Naidu's leadership".

"I'm also happy that Naidu is in power; because this is a victory of Indian Democracy," Pradhan added.

Minutes after Naidu won the Vice Presidential polls, politicians and common people alike expressed their confidence and happiness over his win on Saturday.

West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee congratulated Naidu and said, "I Congratulate Naidu ji, our next Vice President of India. I wish him well. In tradition of democracy, Gopalkrishna Gandhi ji fought with dignity for certain ideal".

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu also congratulated Naidu for being elected as new Vice President of India. He took to twitter saying, "Heartiest congratulations to Shri @MVenkaiahNaidu ji on winning the Vice-Presidential poll".

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also shared his happiness over Naidu's win and said, "Congratulations to @MVenkaiahNaidu ji on being elected Vice President of India. My best wishes for success in your new responsibilities".

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi too congratulated him and recalled his memories of working with Naidu in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Centre, adding that he will cherish this aspect of their association.

"Congratulations to @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu on being elected India's Vice President. My best wishes for a fruitful & motivating tenure. I am confident @MVenkaiahNaidu will serve the nation as a diligent & dedicated Vice President, committed to the the goal of nation building," the Prime Minister said.

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominee and former union minister M. Venkaiah Naidu was elected as the 13th Vice President of India with 516 votes.

Whereas, Opposition nominee Gopalkrishna Gandhi secured 244 votes.

Total 771 out of 785 MPs cast their votes today. However, it was revealed that 14 Members of Parliament (MPs) were not present during the voting process.

Voting for Vice Presidential Election ended with a total poll percentage of 98.21%.

The voting began at 10 a.m. earlier in the day.