Tamil Nadu Government Appoints Rickey Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (Political) to Chief Minister

P. Shanmugam, the state secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], expressed strong disapproval regarding the recent appointment of an astrologer to the position of Officer-on-Duty (Politics) for the Chief Minister. Shanmugam emphasized that the use of astrology in political decision-making is inappropriate and does not align with the values he believes should guide governance.

The appointment has sparked a broader debate about the role of tradition and modernity in politics, with critics arguing that reliance on astrology undermines evidence-based policymaking. In response, supporters of the decision may argue that astrological consultations are part of cultural practices in certain communities.

This situation raises questions about the influence of personal beliefs in political offices and the extent to which cultural practices should intersect with formal governance. The government has not yet responded to the criticisms raised by Shanmugam and others in his party.