Vijay Revokes Astrologer’s OSD Appointment
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has revoked the appointment of astrologer Radhan Pandit Vetrivel as Officer on Special Duty after criticism from allies, opposition parties and political observers.
Vijay Astrologer Appointment Row
Radhan Pandit Vetrivel had been named as Officer on Special Duty in the Chief Minister’s staff, triggering a political controversy soon after the appointment became public.
The decision drew criticism because Vetrivel is widely known as an astrologer and had reportedly predicted Vijay’s electoral victory. His appointment raised questions over the message such a move would send from a government office.
TVK Clarifies Radhan Pandit Role
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leader CT Nirmal Kumar defended the appointment by saying Vetrivel was associated with the party as a media spokesperson and media handler. He said a person’s profession should not be the basis for judging the appointment.
However, the clarification failed to end the controversy, as several parties argued that a government should promote scientific temper and avoid appointments that could be seen as endorsing superstition.
Allies Object To OSD Appointment
The appointment was opposed by leaders from allied parties, including the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and Congress. DMDK chief Premalatha Vijayakanth also publicly criticised the move, saying an astrologer should remain a personal choice and not be placed in an official government role.
The backlash came shortly after Vijay’s government cleared a crucial trust vote, making the controversy politically sensitive for the new administration.
TVK Rolls Back Appointment
Following the criticism, the TVK government rolled back Vetrivel’s appointment as Officer on Special Duty. The reversal is being seen as an early test of how Vijay’s government responds to pressure from allies and public scrutiny.
