AIADMK's Kovai Sathyan Slams Tamil Nadu's 'Dynasty Rule' Amid Cabinet Reshuffle

AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan criticizes the recent appointment of Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister, labeling it as an example of dynasty rule. Sathyan also condemned the reinduction of scam-tainted Senthil Balaji into the Cabinet. The reshuffle saw four new ministers sworn in, including Balaji.

Days after Udhayanidhi Stalin was announced Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan on Monday criticized the state government, labeling it as a perfect example of dynasty rule under the guise of democracy. "It is much larger than nepotism. Senior ministers in DMK await their opportunity to make it big. In the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, alliance parties will drift away from DMK, leading to its factional split, with one family member taking the lead," stated Sathyan.

Reacting to Senthil Balaji's induction into the State Cabinet, Sathyan criticized the decision, highlighting Balaji's scam-tainted public image. "This defines the Dravidian model; a scam-tainted individual who spent festivals in jail is reinduced as a minister. His priority will be securing bail, exposing DMK's misplaced priorities. They should be ashamed for promoting such figures," he remarked.

On Saturday, Udhayanidhi was appointed Deputy Chief Minister, in addition to his role as Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, taking on the planning and development portfolio. DMK leader V Senthil Balaji, along with MLAs Govi Chezhian, R. Rajendran, and SM Nasar, was sworn in as a minister in Chief Minister MK Stalin's reshuffled cabinet. Balaji will handle the Electricity and Non-Conventional Energy Development and Prohibition & Excise portfolios.

Govi Chezhian has been named Minister for Higher Education, R. Rajendran as Minister for Tourism, and SM Nasar as Minister for Minorities Welfare and Non-Resident Tamils Welfare. DMK MLA K Ramachandran has been appointed as the party's Whip in the Tamil Nadu assembly, according to the official statement.