The appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay was revoked within a day after fierce criticism from opposition parties, coalition allies and social media users. The controversy erupted after the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government issued an official order appointing Vettrivel widely described as Vijay’s personal astrologer and political confidant to a government-linked advisory role.
Critics argued that the move contradicted Tamil Nadu’s long-standing rationalist political culture and raised concerns over the use of public office for personal associations. Facing mounting backlash during a crucial Assembly floor test, the Chief Minister’s office withdrew the appointment order on Wednesday.
Appointment Sparks Political And Public Outrage
The controversy began after a government notification confirmed Vettrivel’s appointment as Officer on Special Duty (Political) in the Chief Minister’s office. Reports said the astrologer had gained prominence during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections after publicly predicting a “tsunami victory” for Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. He was also seen as a close member of the party’s campaign ecosystem and had reportedly served as one of its spokespersons.
The decision immediately triggered criticism from both opposition leaders and allies supporting the TVK-led coalition government. During Assembly proceedings ahead of the confidence motion, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) MLA Vanni Arasu reportedly objected to the move, saying the government should promote “scientific thinking” instead of astrology. DMDK leader Premalatha Vijayakanth also questioned why a personal adviser needed an official post funded through public money. Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil criticised the appointment on social media, asking why an astrologer required an OSD designation in the Chief Minister’s office. Leaders from Left parties including CPI and CPM similarly argued that the decision conflicted with secular and rationalist principles associated with Tamil Nadu politics.
Swift Revocation Amid Pressure On New Government
The appointment was revoked just hours after criticism intensified, making it one of the first major controversies faced by Vijay since assuming office as Chief Minister. Several reports described the withdrawal as an attempt by the newly formed government to contain political damage and reassure coalition partners. The reversal also coincided with Vijay’s floor test in the Assembly, where his government secured majority support with backing from Congress, Left parties and other allies.
Political observers noted that while Indian politicians across party lines have often privately consulted astrologers or spiritual advisers, formal appointments to state-funded administrative posts remain rare and controversial. Analysts suggested the issue gained traction because Tamil Nadu has historically projected itself as a state rooted in rationalist and anti-superstition movements led by Dravidian politics. The controversy therefore quickly evolved beyond a personnel appointment into a larger debate over governance, secularism and public accountability.
Vettrivel himself has reportedly claimed to have longstanding connections with influential political figures in Tamil Nadu, including former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. According to reports, he has previously presented himself as an adviser involved in electoral strategy, numerology and political decision-making during key elections.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
In a democracy, personal faith and spiritual beliefs remain deeply individual matters. However, public appointments carry a different responsibility because they involve taxpayer-funded institutions and public trust. The backlash against this appointment reflects a broader expectation that governance should prioritise transparency, professional expertise and constitutional values over personal loyalty or belief systems. At the same time, the swift revocation also shows the importance of democratic accountability and the role public criticism can play in shaping political decisions.
As India continues to balance tradition, faith and modern governance, public leaders may increasingly face scrutiny over where personal influence ends and institutional responsibility begins. Do you think governments should create clearer standards for appointments to public offices to ensure greater transparency and accountability?
Also Read: Vijay Secures 144 Votes In Tamil Nadu Floor Test, Reshaping State’s Political Power Balance
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay has removed astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vetrivel from the post of Officer on Special Duty (OSD).https://t.co/c8NY5jaUz7 pic.twitter.com/K7YMGwKtso
— The Indian Express (@IndianExpress) May 13, 2026
