A fresh political storm has erupted in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday after Chief Minister (CM) Vijay had appointed his personal astrologer as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to himself, and removed him hours after facing criticism. Vijay’s party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) found itself under fire from opposition leaders and allies alike, resulting in the rollback of the decision within hours of announcement.

TN CM Vijay (Left) and his Astrologer Vetrrivel (Right)

“All an astrologer can do is make predictions”: DMK takes swipe

Taking a swipe at CM C Joseph Vijay, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) spokesperson TKS Elangovan ridiculed the move, saying, “All an astrologer can do is make predictions.” He then questioned the rationale behind the appointment, emphasising that governance requires adherence to established rules and administrative expertise. He added, “Vijay needs someone who can advise him properly as per government powers. What can an astrologer do beyond predictions.”?

Appointment withdrawn following backlash

Notably, the controversy focused on the appointment of astrologer and TVK spokesperson Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, who was initially appointed as OSD (Political) to Vijay.

However, the decision saw protests from opposition parties, and even unease within the ruling alliance. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katch (VCK), a key ally supporting TVK, also voiced reservations. In light of the mounting criticism, the government reversed Vettrivel’s appointment, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding the issue.

Stance of allies, rivals

Opposition leaders quickly began criticising the move. Premalatha Vijayakanth, chief of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), condemned the appointment, questioning the message it would propagate among the youth. She said, “If he is your astrologer, keep him as a personal choice,” warning against blurring the line between personal belief and public office. Meanwhile, TVK’s senior leader CT Nirmal Kumar defended the move earlier, saying that Vettrivel was intended to function as a media handler and that his profession should not be a point of contention.

War of words intensifies

The developments in the state have flared tensions between the ruling dispensation and the opposition. CM Vijay recently accused the previous ruling government, DMK of leaving behind a massive debt burden of Rs 10 lakh crore, alleging fiscal mismanagement. Responding to this, Elangovan defended the DMK’s record, asserting that welfare schemes had benefited the under-privileged and that allegations must be supported with evidence.