CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay will expand his cabinet on Thursday, inducting two Congress legislators as ministers, according to Julie Mariappan. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10 am at Lok Bhavan. Congress floor leader K Rajesh Kumar and P Viswanathan are expected to take the oath of office. However, members of the AIADMK faction led by former ministers C Ve Shanmugam and S P Velumani will not be included in this round of expansion, sources told TOI.
Governor's Role
R V Arlekar, who holds the additional charge of Tamil Nadu governor, is expected to arrive in Chennai on Wednesday night to administer the oath. The induction marks a historic moment for the Congress party in the state. "We will be part of the Tamil Nadu cabinet after six decades. A long dream of our cadres is coming true," a Congress leader said.
Background and Criticism
Chief Minister Vijay has faced criticism for leaving nearly 20 departments without ministers, including key portfolios such as agriculture and higher education. The cabinet expansion is seen as a step to address these vacancies. The inclusion of Congress legislators is also viewed as a strategic move to strengthen the ruling coalition.
About the Author: Julie Mariappan is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as the Editor (Policy & Politics). Her expertise spans water resources, civic administration, transport, environment, and urban development, with a particular focus on Tamil Nadu's dynamic political landscape.
