TN Cabinet: IUML's Shahjahan, VCK's Vanni Arasu Sworn In As Ministers

Chennai: AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu, legislators belonging to the IUML and VCK respectively, were sworn in as ministers by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday in a simple ceremony held at the Lok Bhavan here. With two Congress members sworn in as ministers in the newly formed Vijay-led TVK government, the number of allies in the present ruling dispensation has increased to four, signifying coalition party rule, completely changing the alliance dynamics in Tamil Nadu.

A M Shahjahan was made Minister for Minorities Welfare, while VCK leader Vanni Arasu was made Minister for Social Justice.

Shahjahan, who won from Papanasam Assembly constituency, and Vanni Arasu, who emerged victorious from Tindivanam segment, took the oath of office and secrecy in the presence of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, at the Lok Bhavan here.

The induction of the 2 MLAs in the Cabinet led by Vijay brings the total number of ministers, including the chief minister, to 35, the maximum permissible limit under the Constitution.

Ahead of the swearing-in, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan said the majority in his party were of the view that VCK should be included in the Cabinet. His party was the first to advocate a coalition form of governance in Tamil Nadu.

"In 1999, when we were involved in electoral politics along with Moopanar, we had proposed participation in governance and representation in the Cabinet. This is the first time the coalition governance model is being introduced. Therefore, taking into account the invitation extended by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, as well as the party's long-term vision, the majority of the party office-bearers have put forward the view that this decision should be made."

TN Cabinet: IUML's Shahjahan, VCK's Vanni Arasu Sworn In As Ministers

A M Shahjahan was made Minister for Minorities Welfare, while VCK leader Vanni Arasu was made Minister for Social Justice.

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