Tamil Nadu Government Withdraws Political Posting Amid Growing Criticism
C. Joseph Vijay has withdrawn the appointment of Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (Political) to the Chief Minister following criticism from alliance parties and political leaders within the ruling bloc.
An official order issued by the Tamil Nadu government on May 13 confirmed that the appointment made earlier this week had been cancelled with immediate effect.
The order, issued by the Public (Estt-IV) Department and signed by Principal Secretary Reeta Harish Thakkar, stated that the earlier notification appointing Vettrivel to the political advisory role in the Chief Minister’s Office had been revoked.
Appointment Triggered Political Controversy
The controversy began shortly after Vijay’s administration announced Vettrivel’s appointment as Officer on Special Duty handling political coordination and advisory responsibilities.
The move drew criticism from several alliance partners because Vettrivel is widely recognised as an astrologer and a close associate of the TVK chief.
Opposition voices and coalition leaders questioned the decision, arguing that the government should prioritise administrative expertise and scientific thinking in official appointments.
Allies Raise Concerns Over Astrology Link
Ahead of the Assembly floor test, leaders from alliance parties publicly objected to the appointment.
Vaani Arasu urged the government to avoid encouraging superstition in governance.
“Our government should give importance to scientific thinking and not astrology,” the VCK leader said.
TKS Elangovan also criticised the move, questioning the relevance of an astrologer in an administrative role.
“What can an astrologer do? He can only make predictions,” Elangovan remarked.
Multiple Alliance Parties Opposed Decision
Sources indicated that parties including the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam and Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi had raised objections over the appointment behind closed doors.
The criticism reportedly intensified after the government’s confidence vote in the Assembly.
Vettrivel Considered Part Of Vijay’s Inner Circle
Over the past few years, Vettrivel has emerged as a prominent figure within Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam and frequently represented the party during television debates and political discussions.
He is considered a close confidant of Vijay and has reportedly played an important role in political communication and coordination since the party’s formation.
The revocation of the appointment is being viewed as an attempt by the new Tamil Nadu government to avoid friction within its alliance at an early stage of administration.
