Vanni Arasu, an MLA from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), was sworn in as a minister in the Tamil Nadu cabinet on Friday.
The expansion of the cabinet follows the formation of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam-led government. This move integrates key allies into the administration to stabilize the governing coalition.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Lok Bhavan in Chennai. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office to the new ministers, while Chief Minister Vijay attended the proceedings.
Arasu was one of two MLAs inducted into the cabinet during the event [1]. AM Shahjahan, representing the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), was also sworn in as a minister [1]. The induction of these two members is part of a strategic expansion to broaden the government's representative base.
Following the allocation of portfolios, the total number of ministers in the cabinet has reached 23 [2]. The ceremony marks a significant step in the organizational structure of the current administration, ensuring that diverse political interests within the alliance are represented in the executive branch.
While some reports noted the involvement of Governor RN Ravi in approving the recommendations, other records state that Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath at the Lok Bhavan.
“Vanni Arasu, an MLA from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), was sworn in as a minister”
The inclusion of VCK and IUML representatives in the cabinet signifies Chief Minister Vijay's effort to maintain a broad-based coalition. By expanding the cabinet to 23 members, the government is likely attempting to balance caste and religious demographics to ensure political stability and legislative support for its agenda.
