There has been a big upheaval in the politics of Tamil Nadu. Where the government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin has made an important cabinet reshuffle. Under this reshuffle, Chief Minister’s son Udhayanidhi Stalin has been made Deputy Chief Minister. According to the official statement issued by Raj Bhavan, the swearing-in ceremony of Udhayanidhi will be held on Sunday.
Another important aspect of this reshuffle is the return of Senthil Balaji to the cabinet. Balaji was earlier given the power, excise ministries. Balaji was dropped from the cabinet for some time due to alleged money laundering charges. But now he has been included in the cabinet again.
Last week, Udhayanidhi Stalin had rejected speculations about his becoming Deputy Chief Minister and said that such decisions would be taken by the Chief Minister only. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, he had said, “The Chief Minister will take the decision as to who will become the Deputy Chief Minister. The media should not be hasty in my name.”
However, Micro, Small and Medium Industries Minister Anbarasan had indicated a few days ago that the announcement of appointing Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister could be made soon. He had said, “Udayanidhi will be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister and the government will make this announcement within a week to 10 days.”
Giving Udhayanidhi Stalin the post of Deputy Chief Minister is being seen as a long-term strategy of DMK in Tamil Nadu politics. This decision has been taken keeping in mind the upcoming elections, where the party is moving towards further strengthening its power. Udhayanidhi, who was till now working as the Youth Welfare Minister, will now emerge with new responsibilities and role.
