Astrologer's Swift Exit: Tamil Nadu Government Retracts Key Appointment

The Tamil Nadu government has swiftly revoked the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, following backlash from opposition parties and criticism. The decision marks a controversial episode in TVK's recent governance challenges.

The Tamil Nadu government, under TVK leadership, has retracted the appointment of Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, an astrologer, as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. This decision came immediately after his appointment, reflecting the government's rapid response to the public and political backlash.

The original appointment drew criticism from various political quarters, leading to a swift order from the Principal Secretary to revoke the decision. Notably, Vettrivel, known for his dual roles as an astrologer and TVK spokesperson, played a significant part in the party's recent electoral campaign.

Opposition voices were quick to mock the initial appointment. AIADMK MP IS Inbadurai took to social media to comment on the astrologer's failure to foresee his own fate. DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan questioned the practicality of an astrologer's role in government affairs, emphasizing the need for informed advisors. Likewise, other opposition figures critiqued the appointment during the Assembly's floor test, urging the separation of personal belief from official governance roles.