Tamil Nadu: Cabinet expansion will happen gradually, says Finance Minister Sengottaiyan

Tamil Nadu: Amidst the political turmoil surrounding the formation of a new government and cabinet expansion in Tamil Nadu, Finance Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan has clarified that the cabinet expansion process will be gradual. He stated that this is not a sudden process, but will proceed in a phased manner. His statement has given a new twist to the ongoing discussions regarding cabinet formation and portfolio allocation in the state’s politics.

The Thaveka government, led by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, was sworn in on May 10th. A total of nine ministers, along with Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, took the oath of office and secrecy. Immediately after the formation of the government, the process of distributing portfolios within the cabinet began, and the ministers were allocated portfolios on Saturday, May 16th. However, several important portfolios remain pending, sparking discussions in political circles about the possibility of cabinet expansion.

In this context, Finance Minister Sengottaiyan stated that this is not an unusual situation. Citing the example of former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, he said that even when former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa was in power, a limited number of ministers were initially given responsibilities, and later the cabinet was gradually expanded. He said that such a process is carried out based on the government’s functioning and administrative needs.

Sengottaiyan also stated that the final decision on cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation lies with the Chief Minister. He clarified that Chief Minister Vijay has the authority to decide how to proceed with the government and which minister will be assigned which portfolio at what time. He said that this is a purely leadership decision and it is normal for it to take time.

Regarding questions about the state’s economic situation and financial management, the Finance Minister stated that the state leadership has the capability to manage Tamil Nadu’s economy. He stated that a detailed study of the economic situation is currently underway, and the full picture will become clear only after a proper assessment. He also indicated that it would not be appropriate to draw hasty conclusions on financial matters.

Sengottaiyan stated that the government’s focus is on strengthening administrative stability and economic management. He stated that the new government is gradually streamlining all processes, and the cabinet expansion will proceed in that order. Political experts view his statement as a signal of the government’s strategic and balanced decision-making.

Overall, following the formation of the new government in Tamil Nadu, the situation regarding cabinet expansion is gradually becoming clearer. The Finance Minister’s statement indicates that the government wants to proceed in a phased manner, rather than in a hurry, to strengthen and stabilize the administrative structure.