Trust Vote Looms in Tamil Nadu: Astrologer OSD Row Sparks Coalition Tensions as Vijay Faces Early Political Test

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Tamil Nadu’s newly formed government under Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is already facing political turbulence just days after taking office, with a trust vote scheduled for Wednesday adding urgency to an emerging coalition crisis.

At the centre of the controversy is the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (Political) to the Chief Minister. Vettrivel, who also serves as a spokesperson for Vijay’s party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has long been considered a close adviser and spiritual guide to the CM. His reported influence on key decisions — including election predictions and even the timing of the swearing-in ceremony — has triggered sharp criticism.

The move has particularly unsettled coalition partners, including the Indian National Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), the Communist Party of India (Marxist), and the Communist Party of India. Leaders from these parties questioned the rationale behind appointing an astrologer to a government advisory position, arguing it undermines constitutional principles of scientific temper and secular governance.

VCK leader D. Ravikumar termed the decision “unacceptable,” while CPI(M) representatives warned it could normalize superstition in state administration. Congress leaders also raised concerns, intensifying pressure on the fragile alliance that helped Vijay reach power despite falling short of a majority in the 234-member assembly.

TVK secured 108 seats, below the 118-mark required for a clear majority, and formed government with external support from allies including IUML and Left parties.

Meanwhile, opposition dynamics are also shifting. The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) is facing internal rebellion after a poor electoral performance. Dissident leaders SP Velumani and C. Ve. Shanmugam have publicly broken ranks with party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), alleging attempts to align indirectly with rival forces to block TVK’s rise.

Reports suggest that nearly 30 AIADMK MLAs may be sympathetic to Vijay’s leadership, though the party’s official wing has strongly denied the claim and accused the rebels of seeking ministerial incentives. Any cross-voting in the trust vote could trigger anti-defection proceedings under parliamentary rules.

Vijay’s recent outreach to rebel AIADMK leaders in Chennai has further fueled speculation of shifting political equations, even as his government navigates early instability.

With coalition partners expressing unease and opposition ranks showing fractures, the upcoming trust vote is set to be a crucial early test for Vijay’s political durability.