Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay stirred fresh controversy by appointing his astrologer, Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister.
The decision came a day after the row over the Tamil anthem and has triggered sharp reactions across political circles.
Radhan Pandit, who also serves as a spokesperson for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), played a key role during Vijay’s election campaign. He had predicted Vijay’s landslide victory and was among the first to visit his residence when TVK surged ahead during vote counting on May 4.
The appointment has raised eyebrows within the Congress camp, an ally of TVK. Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil posted on X, “Beats me. Why would an astrologer require an OSD position?”
Political observers note that astrologers often share close ties with leaders in South India. Vettrivel earlier advised former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, reportedly influencing several major decisions during her tenure. Their association ended after his prediction about her legal troubles proved wrong.
TVK won 108 of 234 Assembly seats, emerging as the single largest party but falling short of a majority. Vijay formed the government with support from the Congress, CPI, CPM, and VCK.
The astrologer’s appointment has reignited debate over superstition in governance. Critics argue that the move undermines rational politics, while supporters see it as a personal choice reflecting trust and loyalty.
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