Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay appoints astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Chief Minister’s Office, described by outlets as a role focused on political coordination and advisory work. Multiple reports say the government order appoints him as OSD (Political) effective from the date he joins, and that he is a close associate of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and acts as a spokesperson. Several outlets also report that Pandit had publicly predicted a TVK victory about a year earlier and had suggested the “TVK” name.
The appointment quickly draws criticism from political opponents and even from some allies. Critics argue that personal beliefs should not influence governance and characterize the appointment as unscientific. DMDK and VCK leaders are reported to have raised objections, and the issue is discussed in the state Assembly.
Within about 24 hours, the Tamil Nadu government revokes the appointment, withdrawing the earlier order after mounting pressure. The reports describe the revocation as a response to the backlash across multiple parties and lawmakers.
