Unexpected move in TVK; Vijay orders 'clean-up' drive, two ministers to be dropped?

CHENNAI: A significant cabinet reshuffle may be on the horizon for the Joseph Vijay-led government in Tamil Nadu. Sources indicate that two ministers from the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government may be removed from the cabinet as part of a possible restructuring exercise following recent controversies. The ministers under scrutiny are Human Resources Minister D. Sarathkumar and Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister K. Jegadeshwari, both of whom have recently drawn intense criticism.

Minister D. Sarathkumar faces serious allegations regarding voter bribery. Earlier this week, a representative of the Election Flying Squad filed a complaint at the Visaranai Nagar police station after a video emerged on social media allegedly showing cash distribution during his recent election campaign.

In a separate incident, Sarathkumar drew sharp criticism over another viral video depicting him using an ATM card to crush a white substance, triggering an official inquiry. While social media users alleged drug use, Sarathkumar firmly denied the accusations, clarifying that the footage is two years old and merely shows him crushing prescribed medication. He stated that the video is being intentionally misrepresented to tarnish his reputation.

Meanwhile, Social Welfare Minister K. Jegadeshwari has drawn negative attention over a public dispute regarding official protocol. During a government event, Jegadeshwari openly expressed her displeasure to a District Collector over the layout of an official banner, which listed her name second, below fellow minister Keerthana. The public outburst has created a political headache for the administration. Internal reports suggest that the TVK leadership has taken note of the growing friction between Jegadeshwari and Keerthana, and has strictly advised both leaders to resolve their differences internally.

Chief Minister Vijay is understood to be deeply dissatisfied with these controversies emerging so early in his government's tenure. While a cabinet restructuring is actively being considered to clean up the administration's image, some party insiders express concern that executing major changes this early could signal political instability. Consequently, sources suggest any official reshuffle will likely be deferred until after the upcoming Assembly by-elections.

The political landscape in the state remains fluid as seven sitting AIADMK MLAs have resigned from their posts, with the majority already defecting to the TVK. The Election Commission has yet to announce the official dates for the by-elections in these vacant constituencies.