A fresh political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after reports emerged that astrologer Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, believed to be closely associated with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, has been appointed as an “Officer on Special Duty” (OSD) in the state government.
The appointment has triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties and political observers, with critics questioning the role and qualifications of the astrologer in the government setup. Supporters of Vijay, however, defended the move, claiming Vettrivel has long served as a trusted advisor to the Chief Minister.
According to reports, the Tamil Nadu government recently issued an order appointing Radhan Pandit Vettrivel to the OSD position. While the exact responsibilities attached to the role have not been officially detailed yet, sources indicate that he may be involved in advisory and coordination-related functions linked to the Chief Minister’s office.
Vettrivel is widely known in Tamil Nadu political and film circles as an astrologer who has reportedly advised several influential personalities over the years. He gained wider public attention after being linked closely with Vijay during the actor-turned-politician’s rise in state politics.
Political opponents quickly targeted the appointment, alleging that the government was mixing personal belief systems with official administration. Opposition leaders questioned whether public offices should be assigned based on personal trust and astrological associations rather than administrative expertise.
Some critics also raised concerns over transparency and demanded clarification from the government regarding the appointment process, salary structure and official duties attached to the OSD post.
Meanwhile, supporters of Vijay argued that the Officer on Special Duty designation is a common administrative appointment used by governments for coordination and advisory roles. They claimed the controversy is being unnecessarily politicized due to Vettrivel’s public image and association with the Chief Minister.
The development has sparked intense discussion on social media, where users remain divided over the issue. While some people criticized the appointment, others argued that every political leader relies on trusted advisors from different professional backgrounds.
This is not the first time astrology and politics have intersected in Indian public life. Over the decades, several politicians across party lines have been known to consult astrologers regarding election timings, public events and political decisions.
However, the appointment of an astrologer to an official government-linked position has once again reignited debate about the role of personal belief systems in governance and public administration.
The Tamil Nadu government has not yet issued a detailed public clarification regarding the exact scope of Vettrivel’s responsibilities as Officer on Special Duty.
The controversy comes at a time when Vijay’s government continues to remain under intense national spotlight following several high-profile administrative and political decisions after his rise to power in Tamil Nadu.
