Vijay’s Appointment Of Personal Astrologer As OSD Sparks Political Debate

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has found himself at the centre of political discussion after appointing his personal astrologer, Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister’s Office. The development triggered sharp reactions from both allies and opposition parties during the ongoing Assembly session.

The debate intensified during Vijay’s first Assembly session when DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin once again referred to his controversial “eradicate Sanatan Dharma” remark. Responding in the Assembly, Vijay stated that every opinion would be respected equally regardless of party strength, adding that good suggestions would be accepted while unsuitable ones would be rejected.

Soon after the Assembly exchange, the official announcement regarding Vettrivel’s appointment sparked political chatter over the timing of the decision. Leaders from multiple parties questioned whether governance should involve astrology-linked appointments, arguing that public administration should prioritise scientific thinking and rational policymaking.

Members of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), an ally of Vijay’s government, indirectly criticised the move, while opposition leaders also questioned the message such appointments could send to young people and the public. The issue quickly became a major talking point in Tamil Nadu’s political circles.

The discussion has also renewed attention on Vijay’s religious identity and political positioning after he took the oath as “C Joseph Vijay,” a move many viewed as different from traditional Dravidian political symbolism. Since then, debates surrounding religion, politics, and symbolism in Tamil Nadu have continued to generate public and political interest.