Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Appoints Astrologer Radhan Pandit As Adviser Amid Political Opposition

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has triggered a fresh political controversy after appointing astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as his Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister. The decision, taken a day after an earlier row over the Tamil anthem, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and even sections of allied parties, who have questioned the appropriateness of such an appointment in a secular government framework.

According to official sources and political reports, Pandit Vettrivel has long been associated with Vijay in a dual capacity as both an astrologer and a spokesperson linked to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). He is said to have been a close aide during the recent electoral campaign and gained prominence after reportedly predicting a landslide victory for Vijay’s party. His appointment as OSD has now placed him in an advisory position within the Chief Minister’s office.

The move has sparked immediate backlash. Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil publicly questioned the rationale behind appointing an astrologer to a government post, writing that it was unclear why such a role was necessary. VCK general secretary D. Ravikumar strongly opposed the decision, calling it “unacceptable” and urging the Chief Minister to reconsider, arguing that it undermines scientific temper and constitutional values. CPM Central Committee member Shanmugam P also criticized the appointment, stating that it promotes superstition and should be withdrawn.

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Pandit Vettrivel has reportedly been a familiar figure in Tamil Nadu political circles for years, previously consulting with senior leaders, including former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa of the AIADMK. He was known for advising on astrological predictions that at times aligned with political decision-making, although past forecasts have also drawn controversy when they failed to materialize.

The controversy comes shortly after TVK’s strong performance in the recently held Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, where the party secured 108 out of 234 seats but fell short of an outright majority. Vijay was able to take oath only after securing external support from Congress, the Left parties CPI and CPM, and the VCK, forming a fragile governing arrangement.

With the latest appointment, debate has intensified over the role of personal belief systems in public office. Critics argue that the inclusion of an astrologer in an official advisory capacity risks blurring the line between governance and superstition, while supporters within the ruling camp have so far remained largely silent amid growing political pressure.

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