The Tamil Nadu government may announce ₹8,000 assistance to students of government schools, free higher education to children of small farmers, education loans up to ₹20 lakh and new technical education schemes in its first full budget.
Chennai: A significant change has emerged regarding the administrative structure in Tamil Nadu. According to reports, the state government has amended the guidelines governing the appointment process for top administrative positions such as the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP). The new system reportedly eliminates the Governor’s prior approval for these appointments, and the state government has been empowered to issue appointment orders directly.
If officially implemented, this change would be considered a significant shift in Tamil Nadu’s administrative structure. Political and administrative experts believe it could strengthen the Chief Minister’s decision-making role even more than before.
What changes are being mentioned in the new guidelines?
According to reports, this change has been implemented through new Standard Standing Instructions issued by the Department of Human Resource Management. It is reported that appointments to high-ranking positions such as the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) will no longer require the Governor’s prior approval, and the state government will be able to issue appointment orders directly. However, an official gazette notification or detailed government clarification is awaited in this regard.
Claim for cancellation of old administrative orders
Reports indicate that the new system repeals several old administrative guidelines issued from 2022 to 2025, as well as some standing orders that were in effect until January of this year. These changes are said to be aimed at simplifying administrative procedures and further centralizing decision-making.
Changes in decisions related to IAS, IPS and IFS officers
According to the new guidelines, the Chief Minister’s direct approval will be mandatory for matters involving the appointment, transfer, and disciplinary action against Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers. According to reports, the Chief Minister’s approval will be required at every crucial stage, from initiating investigations against officers to issuing show-cause notices and final action. If fully implemented, this system could lead to increased centralization of decision-making at the top level of the state administration.
The new rules will also apply to other senior officers.
It is being reported that the Chief Minister’s role has been expanded not only in matters of All India Service officers, but also in matters involving departmental secretaries, additional secretaries, department heads, district revenue officers (DROs), and superintendents of police (SPs). Under the new system, important files related to the appointment, transfer, and service of these officers will be presented directly to the Chief Minister.
Amendment in the rules for financial approval
According to reports, significant changes have also been made to the rules governing financial approvals. Recurring expenses exceeding ₹2 crore will require the Chief Minister’s approval. Non-recurring expenses exceeding ₹5 crore will also require the Chief Minister’s approval. The government’s aim is reportedly to strengthen oversight of major financial decisions.
New provisions related to land acquisition
The new administrative guidelines also reveal changes to the rules governing the land acquisition process. According to reports, joint approval of the Chief Minister and the Revenue Minister will be required for land acquisitions exceeding one hectare and for land transfers between the state and central governments. Experts believe this could lead to more controlled and accountable decision-making for large infrastructure projects.
Why is the role of the Chief Minister increasing in administrative decisions?
According to political analysts, if this new system continues, almost all important administrative decisions of the Tamil Nadu government will be taken through the Chief Minister’s Office. Supporters argue that this will expedite decision-making, improve coordination between various departments, and increase administrative accountability. Critics, however, say excessive centralization could raise questions about institutional balance and administrative independence.
Constitutional and legal aspects
The Indian Constitution clearly defines the roles of the Governor, Chief Minister, and Council of Ministers. In many cases, appointments and administrative decisions are subject to relevant service rules, central government guidelines, and constitutional provisions. If the new system faces a legal challenge, the final interpretation may rest with the judiciary. Experts say the impact of any major administrative change will depend on its official nature and legal validity.
There could also be political implications.
This potential change in administrative powers in Tamil Nadu could also have political implications. Supporters are calling it a step that strengthens the state government’s administrative autonomy, while the opposition may raise the issue of centralization of power. The reactions of the government, the opposition, and constitutional experts on this issue will be crucial in the coming days.