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Vijay Faces Crucial Floor Test, DMDK Flags His Astrologer's Appointment
The Tamil Nadu government led by TVK faces a floor test as the DMDK opposes the appointment of astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Chief Minister's OSD. The episode follows a planned swearing-in time change on May 10 and ongoing debates over transparency and alleged horse-trading, with multiple parties weighing in on support for the TVK-led government.
Why It Matters
This sequence highlights political maneuvering and raises questions about governance transparency and the influence of advisers in a crucial parliamentary vote.
Timeline
2 Events
Floor test held for TVK government; astrologer appointment contested
May 13, 2026
The Tamil Nadu Assembly takes up the motion for the Vote of Confidence as Vijay faces a crucial floor test. The DMDK opposes the appointment of astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Chief Minister's Officer on Special Duty. Premalatha Vijayakant condemns the appointment, questions the message to youth, and cites concerns about transparency and past horse-trading in the Assembly. The BJP defends the appointment as a personal choice. In the backdrop of the poll outcome, TVK is described as winning 108 seats on its electoral debut, DMK 59, and AIADMK 47; BJP won one seat in Udhagamandalam and will maintain a neutral stand. PMK abstains from the floor test; Congress, CPI(M), and VCK extend support to TVK; IUML (two MLAs) extends support; expelled AMMK MLA Kamaraj also supports TVK.
Vijay's swearing-in plan and proposed time change
May 10, 2026
Vijay planned his swearing-in ceremony for May 10 at 3:45 pm, but it was later rescheduled to 10:00 am after reports that astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel suggested the earlier time as more auspicious.