Controversy Erupts Over Udhayanidhi Stalin's Appointment as Tamil Nadu Deputy CM

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram defends Chief Minister's prerogative in appointing Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy Chief Minister, dismissing dynasty politics arguments as 'boring.' Opposition, including AIADMK and BJP leaders, criticize the move, labeling it as an example of nepotism and dynastic rule.

After a heated debate over Udhayanidhi Stalin's appointment as Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram defended the decision, stating that the Chief Minister acted within his prerogative to promote, drop, or induct anyone. Chidambaram dismissed arguments about dynasty politics, labeling them as 'boring' and noting that all political parties have similar dynamics, including the DMK.

'This argument of dynasty politics is repetitive and uninteresting. All political parties operate similarly, and DMK is no exception. The Chief Minister has the prerogative to make such decisions, and he has exercised it properly,' said Chidambaram. However, AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan slammed the state government on Monday, calling it a 'perfect example of dynasty rule' under the guise of democracy.

'It's a clear instance of dynasty rule under the pretense of democracy. Senior ministers in DMK are waiting for their turn to rise, and by the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, alliances will fracture, possibly splitting DMK,' Sathyan noted. BJP national spokesperson Shezad Poonawalla echoed this sentiment on Sunday, accusing the INDIA bloc of prioritizing family interests by promoting only their own kin. Multiple BJP leaders have condemned Udhayanidhi's elevation as further evidence of dynastic politics within the INDI alliance parties. Udhayanidhi Stalin, previously the Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, was appointed Deputy Chief Minister on September 28 and will now also oversee the planning and development portfolio.

(With inputs from agencies.)