Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has appointed astrologer and TVK spokesperson Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister, a move that has sparked criticism from allies and opposition leaders.

Radhan Pandit, who had publicly predicted a major electoral victory for Vijay and the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, has been considered a close aide of the Chief Minister during the party’s election campaign.

The appointment drew sharp reactions from leaders within the Congress and Left parties. Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil questioned the decision in a post on X, asking why an astrologer required an OSD position in government.

Leaders from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and CPI(M) also criticised the move, arguing that such appointments go against the principles of scientific temper and secular governance.

According to reports, Radhan Pandit was among the first people to visit Vijay’s residence after TVK’s strong performance in the assembly elections. He has also been associated with the party as a spokesperson and political commentator.

The controversy comes amid rapid political developments in Tamil Nadu following the formation of the new TVK-led government.

Maharashtra opposition parties on Tuesday demanded an all-party meeting after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to adopt austerity measures amid rising concerns over the ongoing West Asia crisis.

The prime minister recently urged people to avoid non-essential gold purchases, reduce petrol and diesel usage, postpone foreign travel and consider work-from-home practices to help minimise the economic impact of global uncertainty.

Leaders from opposition parties in Maharashtra said the Centre should hold detailed discussions with political parties and explain the broader economic situation to the public. They raised concerns over the possible impact of geopolitical tensions on fuel prices, inflation and the overall economy.

Some opposition leaders also questioned the timing of the austerity appeal, saying citizens deserve greater clarity on the government’s plans to tackle any economic challenges arising from the crisis in West Asia.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders defended the prime minister’s remarks, describing them as precautionary steps aimed at reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and controlling inflationary risks linked to global supply disruptions.

The debate comes as concerns grow globally over energy supplies and rising crude oil prices due to tensions in West Asia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to reduce non-essential overseas travel has received support from the tourism industry body Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH), which said attracting more foreign tourists to India is equally important for the economy.

FAITH Secretary General Rajiv Mehra endorsed the Prime Minister’s suggestion that Indians should reconsider leisure trips abroad and destination weddings overseas for the time being. He said inbound tourism can play a major role in helping India earn foreign exchange.

The remarks came a day after Narendra Modi urged citizens to prioritise domestic tourism amid concerns over foreign exchange outflow and rising global economic uncertainty.

According to government tourism data cited in recent reports, more than 3.27 crore Indians travelled abroad in 2025, with leisure travel accounting for a significant share of these trips. At the same time, growth in tourism-related foreign exchange earnings reportedly slowed during the year.

FAITH said India should focus not only on reducing unnecessary overseas expenditure but also on improving infrastructure, connectivity and tourist experiences to attract more international visitors.

The Prime Minister’s remarks came against the backdrop of global tensions and pressure on India’s foreign exchange reserves due to higher crude oil prices and economic uncertainties.