In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Udhayanidhi Stalin, son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, has been named the Deputy Chief Minister. Currently serving as the sports minister, Udhayanidhi’s promotion comes shortly after his father hinted at changes in the cabinet.
The reshuffle, approved by Governor RN Ravi, also marks the return of V Senthil Balaji to the council of ministers, following his recent release on bail from a money laundering case linked to the cash-for-jobs scam. Three ministers have been dropped from the state cabinet as part of the revamp.
An official statement from the Raj Bhavan confirmed that Udhayanidhi will also take on the role of planning and development minister, in addition to his existing responsibilities. He is scheduled to take the oath of office alongside other new cabinet members on Sunday at 3:30 PM at the Raj Bhavan.
Udhayanidhi’s rise to this prominent position is seen as a strategic move to enhance his acceptance within the government and alleviate some of the burdens on his father, thus facilitating more efficient governance. Earlier this year, CM Stalin had dismissed rumors regarding his son’s promotion as unfounded, describing them as “the handiwork of rivals.” He reiterated that all ministers, including Udhayanidhi, were effectively acting as deputies to the CM.
Representing Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni in the assembly, Udhayanidhi’s elevation has been anticipated for some time, although it faced delays amid indications of tension within the DMK-led alliance. A leader from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi had expressed dissatisfaction over the expected promotion.
As the political landscape in Tamil Nadu evolves, Udhayanidhi’s new role is expected to play a pivotal part in the governance of the state.
