Fresh after surviving a dramatic trust vote in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government found itself battling an entirely different crisis — not numbers, but nakshatras.
The controversy erupted after TVK appointed celebrity astrologer Radhan Pandit Vetrivel as Officer on Special Duty (Political) in the Chief Minister’s office. The move immediately triggered outrage from allies, opposition parties, and even sections within the ruling alliance, forcing the government into a quick retreat.
Critics questioned what message a supposedly modern and progressive government was sending by formally appointing an astrologer to a political advisory role. Opposition leaders mocked the decision, asking whether government policy would now be decided through cabinet meetings or kundlis.
DMDK leader Premalatha Vijayakanth tore into the appointment during the Assembly debate, saying: “If he is your personal astrologer, keep him personal. What message are you sending to the youth?”
Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil also openly questioned why an astrologer needed an official government designation, while VCK leaders called the appointment “unscientific” and “unacceptable in a secular government.”
The irony was hard to miss. Vijay had just emerged stronger after winning the confidence vote with support from allies. Yet within hours, his government was defending the appointment of a man reportedly known for advising political leaders based on planetary positions and auspicious timings.
TVK leaders attempted damage control, insisting Vetrivel was actually being brought in as a media handler and spokesperson, not as an astrologer. But the explanation failed to calm critics, especially after reports surfaced that the astrologer had allegedly convinced Vijay to reschedule his oath-taking ceremony based on astrological advice.
Adding another layer of political theatre, Vetrivel is no stranger to power corridors. He reportedly advised former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and was considered influential during parts of the AIADMK regime — until one of his predictions spectacularly failed.
Eventually, faced with growing embarrassment and pressure from allies, the Vijay government quietly rolled back the appointment.
For a party trying to project itself as the future of Tamil Nadu politics, the episode became an instant lesson in how quickly political stars can move from “favourable” to “retrograde.”
Also Read: Vijay Wins Floor Test In Tamilnadu https://www.vibesofindia.com/vijay-wins-floor-test-in-tamilnadu-assembly/
