TN Govt revokes appointment of Astrologer after criticism
The Tamil Nadu government withdrew its decision to appoint Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, an astrologer, as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD – Political) to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, following strong criticism from opposition parties and sections within the ruling camp.
The government order (GO) appointing Vettrivel was revoked less than 24 hours after it was issued on Tuesday, amid mounting political controversy and public debate over the selection.
The appointment had triggered sharp reactions in the State Assembly, with opposition leaders, including DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth, questioning the decision to assign a politically sensitive administrative role to an astrologer.
Facing sustained backlash, the Vijay-led administration moved swiftly to cancel the order, and official sources confirmed that the GO now stands withdrawn with immediate effect. A replacement for the post has not yet been announced.
The controversy intensified after questions were raised over Vettrivel’s suitability for the role, which involves handling political affairs in the Chief Minister’s Office.
Government representatives later clarified that Vettrivel has long been associated with the party as a media spokesperson, and described his appointment as part of internal administrative restructuring.
However, the explanation did little to ease criticism, with opposition parties alleging lack of transparency in key appointments within the government.
Officials said further details regarding the new appointment to the OSD (Political) post will be issued in due course.
