Tamil Nadu's Vijay-led TVK expands cabinet, branding routine policies as reforms

The Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government in Tamil Nadu is set to hold its first cabinet expansion on Thursday, with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar expected to oversee the swearing‑in. Sources say the reshuffle will likely accommodate alliance partner Congress, with two Congress legislators positioned for ministerial posts, while proposals to include AIADMK members have been rejected after opposition from coalition partners. The expansion aims to fill vacancies in more than 20 departments, including Higher Education, Revenue, Transport and Social Welfare, many of which have been operating under interim supervision.

At the same time, TVK’s digital network has been promoting the new administration’s actions as a revolutionary overhaul. Online campaigns have highlighted initiatives such as a “200‑unit free electricity” scheme, women’s safety patrols branded as “Singapenn”, and the closure of TASMAC liquor outlets, presenting them as unprecedented reforms. Analysts note that these measures largely continue existing programs from previous AIADMK and DMK governments, with only minor adjustments or rebranding.

The juxtaposition of a politically strategic cabinet reshuffle and a coordinated media narrative underscores the TVK’s effort to consolidate power and shape public perception of its governance.