Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, who is expanding his cabinet, could have two advisers, according to reports. Vijay’s strategist, John Arokiaswamy, and businessman and close aide, Vishnu Reddy, could be selected to advise the Chief Minister on political and public affairs, respectively.
John Arokiasamy has been working as the political strategist of the Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhakam and the primary organising mind behind the Vijay. He was not only the traditional campaign manager but also functioned as the chief strategist. He has also worked as a strategic consultant for Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah in his first tenure, in addition to hands-on experience in political strategic consulting alongside the NCP and the Shiv Sena. He is likely to oversee key tasks such as planning the government's next political moves, coordinating coalition parties, and formulating legislative strategies.
As for Vishnu Reddy, the Chennai-based businessman is said to be a childhood friend of Vijay. He was even present when he went to the Governor's residence to deliver a letter requesting him to form the government. Vishnu Reddy is a key member of the very important and exclusive group that advises Vijay on any major decision he makes in his personal or public life. He is entrusted with the responsibility of coordinating the Chief Minister's daily public events, government functions and public meetings in a very planned and efficient manner, according to reports.
Though there is no official confirmation yet, the speculations have triggered scorn from some quarters against the potential appointment of these two as special advisers, equivalent to IAS officers.
New ministers
A M Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu, legislators belonging to the IUML and VCK, respectively, were sworn in as ministers by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday. Shahjahan won from the Papanasam Assembly constituency, and Vanni Arasu emerged victorious from the Tindivanam seat.
The induction of the 2 MLAs in the Cabinet led by Vijay brings the total number of ministers, including the chief minister, to 35, the maximum permissible limit under the Constitution.
