Chennai, May 20: The Tamilga Vetrik Kazhagam (TVK) government, led by C. Joseph Vijay, is preparing for its first cabinet expansion on Thursday. This move is seen as an effort to establish a significant political balance, aiming to address coalition expectations, regional representation, and internal party dynamics.
Sources indicate that the final round of consultations regarding the list of ministers will be completed before the potential swearing-in ceremony on Thursday morning.
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who is currently handling additional responsibilities, is expected to arrive in Chennai on Wednesday evening to oversee the formalities related to this expansion.
According to sources within the ruling camp, the government may include its coalition partner, Congress, in the expanded cabinet. Two Congress MLAs have emerged as key contenders for ministerial positions.
Despite speculation about members from the AIADMK faction led by C.V. Shanmugam and S.P. Velumani being included in the cabinet, sources revealed that the ruling leadership decided to backtrack on this move following strong opposition from coalition partners, including Congress, leftist parties, and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.
A senior minister, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that there had never been any formal discussions about including AIADMK legislators in the cabinet. He clarified that their support during the confidence vote in the assembly was merely political backing provided in the house.
Close sources to the government mentioned that legal advisors and coalition partners had advised caution before making such politically sensitive decisions, as it could lead to instability at the start of the government’s term.
Meanwhile, vigorous lobbying has reportedly begun within the TVK, with several first-time MLAs and influential party officials vying for cabinet positions.
This expansion is also expected to address the issue of ministerial shortages in over 20 key government departments, including higher education, revenue, transportation, and social welfare.
Several other departments, such as agriculture, housing and urban development, tourism, information technology, labor welfare, fisheries, and environment, still lack formally appointed ministers.
Sources from the secretariat noted that some departments are currently functioning under the informal oversight of existing ministers. Officials are reviewing files and engaging in necessary discussions even before the formal allocation of departments.
Leave a Comment