Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay revoked the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty on Wednesday [1].
The decision follows a swift political storm that tested the Chief Minister's relationship with his alliance partners and the public's perception of government appointments. The reversal highlights the tension between personal advisors and the administrative standards expected of a state government.
Vettrivel had been named as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister's office [1]. However, the appointment triggered immediate and intense backlash from opposition parties and alliance partners [1]. Critics questioned the suitability of an astrologer filling a political role within the state administration, a move that also drew legal scrutiny and public criticism [1].
The government acted quickly to neutralize the controversy. The revocation occurred less than 24 hours after the appointment was first announced [2]. Other reports noted the move happened one day after the appointment sparked widespread criticism [3].
Chief Minister Vijay faced pressure from multiple fronts, including allies who raised formal objections to the appointment [1]. The swift withdrawal of the OSD role suggests a need for the administration to maintain stability among its coalition partners during a volatile political climate.
No official statement was provided regarding whether Vettrivel will remain in an unofficial advisory capacity or if the role will be filled by a career civil servant.
“The revocation occurred less than 24 hours after the appointment was announced”
This rapid reversal indicates that Chief Minister Vijay is prioritizing coalition stability and public image over personal associations. By removing an astrologer from a formal government post within 24 hours, the administration is attempting to signal a commitment to professional governance and avoid a prolonged conflict with alliance partners who view such appointments as a liability.
