CHENNAI: The Congress party made a comeback into the government in Tamil Nadu, ending its 59-year exile, with two of its legislators among 23 new ministers sworn in on Thursday. Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay expanded his cabinet in an exercise that rewarded loyalists, accommodated allies, and signalled an attempt at rewriting social engineering in state politics.
Cabinet Expansion Details
Along with 21 ministers from the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Congress legislators P Viswanathan and S Rajesh Kumar took oath. They were allocated the portfolios of higher education and tourism, respectively. With this expansion, Tamil Nadu now has 33 ministers. The remaining two slots are kept for the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). Consequently, there will be no room for the anti-EPS AIADMK faction.
Historic Dalit Representation
In a significant political message, Chief Minister Vijay inducted seven Dalit ministers, marking the highest representation for the community in Tamil Nadu's history. The number is expected to rise to eight once the VCK joins the ministry. This move underscores the government's commitment to social justice and inclusivity.
Departure from Political Trend
The cabinet expansion also marked another departure from the state's political trend, with Vijay inducting two Brahmins into the cabinet. While Mylapore MLA P Venkataramanan was made a minister in the first batch sworn in on May 10, Srirangam legislator S Ramesh was appointed as the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) minister on Thursday. This inclusion breaks the long-standing pattern of Brahmin underrepresentation in Tamil Nadu cabinets.
Women and Youth Representation
There are four women ministers in the cabinet. Although the state has had a similar number of women ministers in the past, the TVK cabinet will feature the youngest women ministers: Kamali, aged 28 (animal husbandry), and Keerthana, aged 29 (industries). This cabinet is also one of the youngest, with nine ministers under 40 years old and two under 30. Only four ministers are aged above 60, with K A Sengottaiyan being the oldest at 78 years.
Key Portfolios and Appointments
First-time MLA representing R K Nagar, Marie Wilson, has been appointed as the finance minister, replacing Sengottaiyan, who has now been given the revenue portfolio. Vijay's friend Srinath has been allocated the fisheries department, while long-term functionary of Vijay's fan association, Vinoth, has been made the agriculture minister. These appointments reflect a blend of experience and loyalty, aimed at strengthening the government's performance.
