Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Astrologer Appointment Sparks Controversy Among Allies
Vijay's Move To Appoint Astrologer As OSD Attracts Scorn From Allies: 'Unacceptable'
News 18
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's appointment of his astrologer, Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) has drawn criticism from coalition allies, including Congress and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). They argue that an astrologer in such a position is unacceptable in a secular government.
- 01Vijay appointed his astrologer as OSD, surprising coalition allies.
- 02Critics, including Congress and VCK, argue the appointment undermines secular governance.
- 03Radhan Pandit has a history of political influence, previously advising Jayalalithaa.
- 04The OSD role is crucial for political coordination within the government.
- 05Opposition voices stress the need for a scientific outlook in governance.
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The appointment of Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, an astrologer, as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has ignited backlash from coalition partners, including the Congress party and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). Critics, such as Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil, expressed confusion over the necessity of an astrologer in a government position, questioning the appropriateness of this decision in a secular state. VCK's general secretary D Ravikumar labeled the move 'unacceptable' and urged the Chief Minister to reconsider. CPI(M) leader Shanmugam P emphasized that the government should promote a scientific approach rather than rely on astrology. Radhan Pandit has been a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu politics, previously serving as a spiritual advisor to the late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa during her successful 1991 election campaign. His appointment as OSD, a role that facilitates communication between the Chief Minister's office and various political entities, has raised concerns about the influence of astrology in political decision-making.
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The controversy surrounding the appointment may affect public perception of the government and its commitment to secularism and scientific reasoning.
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