Tamil Nadu CM Appoints Astrologer as Officer on Special Duty, Sparking Controversy

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister Vijay has stirred public interest by appointing his personal astrologer, Rickey Radhan Pandit Vetrivel, as his Officer on Special Duty (Political). This decision, reported by ANI, was formalized through an order from the Public Department Secretariat. Vetrivel is no stranger to the political arena, having previously served as an advisor to late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, although their association ended in 2014 after a controversial prediction regarding her imprisonment proved inaccurate.

Vetrivel’s role as an astrologer extends beyond Jayalalithaa; he has provided counsel to various political figures across party lines, including members from the Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. His appointment on May 12 comes shortly after Vijay’s party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), made a significant impact in the state assembly elections, emerging as the largest party by winning 108 seats in a 234-member assembly. This victory marked the party’s electoral debut and resulted in the replacement of the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam government.

The decision to appoint an astrologer to a political advisory position has not gone unnoticed. Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil openly questioned the rationale behind such a move, asking on social media, “Why would an astrologer require an OSD position? Can anyone explain?” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment of skepticism about the role of astrology in governance, particularly in a political landscape that often grapples with serious issues.

Vetrivel’s appointment raises questions about the influence of astrology in political decision-making and governance in Tamil Nadu. In a state where faith and superstition often intermingle with politics, the appointment could be seen as both a nod to traditional beliefs and a controversial step that could garner criticism from various quarters. As the TVK government moves forward, it remains to be seen how Vetrivel’s insights will shape political strategies and decisions in the months to come.

Source: scroll.in