Vijay's Move To Appoint Astrologer As OSD Attracts Scorn From Allies: 'Unacceptable'

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay’s decision to appoint his astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) came as a surprise to many, with allies in the ruling coalition – including Congress – questioning the move.

Radhan Pandit, who has four decades of practice spanning Vedic astrology, became a vocal supporter of actor-turned-politician Vijay, predicting that the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) would win the elections, long before the party emerged as a dominant force in Tamil Nadu’s politics.

However, TVK’s allies were completely not on board with appointing him as the OSD. In a post on X, Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil said, “Beats me. Why would an astrologer require an OSD position?? Can any one explain?”

Viduthalai

Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is also part of Vijay’s ruling coalition. However, VCK general secretary D Ravikumar also voiced his opposition, saying, “This is unacceptable in a secular government. The Honorable Chief Minister should reconsider this.”

மதச்சார்பற்ற அரசில் இது ஏற்கத்தக்கதல்ல. மாண்புமிகு முதலமைச்சர் அவர்கள் இதை மறு பரிசீலனை செய்யவேண்டும்

– ரவிக்குமார் pic.twitter.com/jCpGGt5aJi

— Dr D.Ravikumar MP (@WriterRavikumar) May 12, 2026

CPI(M) leader Shanmugam P said, “It is the government’s duty to foster a scientific outlook. Ricky Radhan Pandit, who has been announced today as the political wing secretary of the Chief Minister, is fundamentally an astrologer.”

“This appointment by the government is unacceptable! It is also unacceptable that he will provide political advice,” he added.

மதச்சார்பற்ற அரசில் இது ஏற்கத்தக்கதல்ல. மாண்புமிகு முதலமைச்சர் அவர்கள் இதை மறு பரிசீலனை செய்யவேண்டும்

– ரவிக்குமார் pic.twitter.com/jCpGGt5aJi

— Dr D.Ravikumar MP (@WriterRavikumar) May 12, 2026

An Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister (Political) typically acts as a key link between the chief minister’s office, political leaders, party workers, government departments and the public. It is an influential position, requiring close coordination with the CM on matters requiring political coordination.

The latest appointment brought renewed attention to Radhan Pandit’s association with political parties, particularly the late Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa. Pandit has claimed that he served as a spiritual advisor to Jayalalithaa during key phases of her political career, such as her sweeping victory in 1991.

ALSO READ: When Predictions Hurt: Astrologer Radhan Pandit Who Forecast Vijay’s Win Once Guided Jayalalithaa

For a period, he was seen as part of her inner advisory circle, quietly influencing decisions from behind the scenes. However, the relationship soured after he warned Jayalalithaa of a difficult political phase beginning around 1994, which was not well received.