Tamil Nadu Government Plans Gradual Cabinet Expansion, Says Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan

Coimbatore, May 17: Senior Tamil Nadu Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan indicated on Sunday that the government, led by Chief Minister Vijay, may gradually expand its cabinet in the coming months. He referenced the approach taken during the tenure of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.

Speaking to reporters at Coimbatore Airport, Sengottaiyan noted that the current ministry structure could evolve over time. He suggested that the pace and extent of the cabinet expansion would ultimately be decided by Chief Minister Vijay.

When asked about the future structure of the state cabinet, he emphasized that it is our responsibility to ensure that whatever the Chief Minister wishes to implement is achieved.

Recalling Jayalalithaa’s previous administrative style, Sengottaiyan mentioned that her government initially began with a small team of ministers, which was later expanded in phases. He pointed out that when Jayalalithaa formed her cabinet, she first appointed seven ministers and then gradually increased the number. Similarly, the current Tamil Nadu cabinet may also undergo a phased expansion.

Sengottaiyan stressed that such decisions are ultimately made by the Chief Minister, and that in-depth discussions at the leadership level are necessary. He stated that managing the cabinet expansion and making such decisions is the Chief Minister’s responsibility, and he must make the final call.

These comments come at a time when political discussions are intensifying regarding the future structure of the administration led by Vijay and the potential inclusion of additional allies and leaders in the cabinet.

Sengottaiyan also addressed ongoing speculation regarding the role of AIADMK in the Tamil Nadu government and reports suggesting that the party may receive ministerial positions in future cabinet reshuffles. When directly asked by reporters how many seats AIADMK might be allocated in the ministry, Sengottaiyan declined to comment on the speculation, stating that no such discussions have taken place yet.

He smiled and remarked, “You are the one saying that. We haven’t mentioned anything about it.”

– P.S.K.