Naysa Shrivastava, Pune
Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Department of Tamil Nadu and a former actor can be named as Deputy CM to decrease his father’s workload, sources told Hindustan Times. He joined the DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) cabinet on 14 December 2022 and was sworn in as Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Department. His father also took the post of Deputy CM in 2009 after Lok Sabha elections.” This move will be a huge advantage for the party in 2026 Assembly Elections”, a senior party leader told PTI.
Due to the Sanatan Dharma controversy in January, he failed to grab the Deputy CM position. The controversy where Udhayanidhi compared Hinduism with the pandemic and asked for its eradication sparked outrage, criticism and complaints against him led to Supreme Court interference. The plan was dropped again in June because of the Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy; 65 people died after drinking poisonous liquor.
The appointment as Deputy CM will likely take place before his United States visit on August 22, confirmed by DMK sources. The primary reason behind this move is to lighten the work of MK Stalin, “This move will help him groom Udhayanidhi with important responsibilities,” said a senior minister to Indian Express. The strategy is to strengthen the political administrative power before the 2026 Assembly Elections. A minister told Indian Express that the post was not forced on him but he requested for it. Amid all the rumors and different opinions regarding his political career and choices, a minister said, “If was a reluctant politician, he wouldn’t demand a heavier post, these rumors rise because of his celebrity image.” Some other DMK senior ministers also gave their statements to Indian Express, “Problems can occur if portfolios or powerful ministers are taken away for Udhayanidhi, otherwise there will be no problem.”
Udhayanidhi is also known for the film company Red Giants, which has had great roles in Tamil and South Indian films.
Udhayanidhi’s mother is a believer and after his atheistic comments, a contrasting belief system within the family was seen. He made a decision to leave his film career and join politics to face any challenges that come with dynastic politics.