Chennai: In a significant development, sources indicate that a cabinet reshuffle is on the cards in the DMK regime in Tamil Nadu. The move is expected to take place before Chief Minister MK Stalin’s upcoming 17-day trip to the United States on August 27.
According to insiders, Udhayanidhi Stalin, currently the Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports, may be elevated to the position of Deputy Chief Minister. This move has been speculated for some time, with many within the party calling for Udhayanidhi to be given greater responsibilities.
Few other ministers to be axed
In addition to Udhayanidhi’s potential promotion, there are rumors that some existing ministers may be removed from their positions. Gandhi and Mano Thangaraj are reportedly among those who may be axed, making way for new faces to join the cabinet.
Sources also suggest that DMK legislators from the Delta districts may be given ministerial positions, while Nasser, who was previously removed from the cabinet, may be reinstated.
It may be recalled that Chief Minister Stalin when asked about his son and Minister Udhayanidh’s elevation, statedg that the time is “not yet ripe” for such a move.
Cabinet reshuffle ahead of the Chief Minister’s US trip
The cabinet reshuffle is seen as a significant development in Tamil Nadu politics, with the DMK government nearing the end of its third year in power. The move is expected to be announced before August 23, ahead of the Chief Minister’s foreign trip.
Stalin’s trip to the United States is aimed at attracting business investments to Tamil Nadu, with meetings scheduled with top business leaders. The cabinet reshuffle is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the government ahead of this important trip.