Udhayanidhi Stalin Named Deputy CM in Tamil Nadu Cabinet Shake-Up, Senthil Balaji Returns as Minister

Chennai, Tamil Nadu – In a major reshuffle of Tamil Nadu’s ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, Udhayanidhi Stalin, son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, has been appointed Deputy Chief Minister, further solidifying the Stalin family’s political legacy. The reshuffle also marks the return of DMK leader Senthil Balaji to the state cabinet after a prolonged legal battle. Balaji, who had spent 15 months in jail on money laundering charges, was reinstated following a Supreme Court bail ruling.

Key Cabinet Changes

In a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, three new ministers—Govi Chezhian, SM Nasar, and R Rajendran—took the oath of office alongside Senthil Balaji. The reshuffle reflects a strategic alignment within the DMK government as it prepares for the upcoming challenges leading up to the 2026 state elections. Each of these ministers has been assigned crucial portfolios, signaling their growing importance in the party's ranks.

• Senthil Balaji: Reinstated as Minister for Electricity, Excise, and Prohibition, Balaji returns to his former post with a significant political message.

• Govi Chezhian: Assumes responsibility for the Higher Education portfolio, a key area in a state known for its emphasis on education.

• SM Nasar: Takes over as the Minorities Welfare Minister, reflecting the DMK's commitment to minority communities.

• R Rajendran: Given charge of the Tourism portfolio, indicating a focus on promoting Tamil Nadu as a leading tourist destination.

Udhayanidhi Stalin's Rise to Power

Perhaps the most significant development in the reshuffle is the elevation of Udhayanidhi Stalin to the position of Deputy Chief Minister. Udhayanidhi, who is already a minister in his father’s cabinet, now takes on the number two role in the government. As the third generation of the Stalin family to hold a prominent position, Udhayanidhi’s rise was not without controversy. While he did not take the oath during this reshuffle as he was already a sitting minister, his new title places him in a central leadership role, drawing both praise and criticism.

In a social media post earlier in the day, Udhayanidhi referred to his new position as "not a title, but a responsibility." He visited the memorials of his grandfather, the legendary DMK leader M Karunanidhi, and Periyar, the social activist who inspired the Dravidian movement, underscoring his commitment to the party's ideology and legacy.

Opposition Criticism and Charges of Dynastic Politics

Udhayanidhi Stalin’s promotion has provoked strong reactions from opposition parties. Both the AIADMK and BJP have criticized the move, accusing the DMK of indulging in dynastic politics. AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan labeled Udhayanidhi as a "prince," claiming that his elevation marks the downfall of the DMK ahead of the 2026 state elections.

“This exposes what a big liar Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is. Before the 2021 election, he said his son, son-in-law, or anyone from his family wouldn’t venture into politics. This signals what we have been saying. This is dynastic rule in the name of democracy,” Sathyan said.

BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad echoed similar sentiments, accusing the DMK of prioritizing family interests over public welfare. He pointed out that while DMK continues to remain in alliance with other parties, they have not shared any significant power with their partners, choosing instead to appoint Udhayanidhi to a top government post.

Senthil Balaji’s Reinstatement: A Political Signal

Another focal point of the cabinet reshuffle is the return of Senthil Balaji to the cabinet. Balaji had been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in June 2022 over allegations of money laundering and had spent over a year in jail. The Supreme Court granted him bail just days before his reinstatement. Balaji’s return is seen as a defiant message to the BJP-ruled central government, with the DMK maintaining that he was a victim of political vendetta.

Balaji has been reappointed as Minister for Electricity, Excise, and Prohibition—a position he held before his arrest. The move reinforces the DMK’s stance that the charges against him were politically motivated and highlights the party’s refusal to back down in the face of pressure from central investigative agencies.

Both Balaji and the DMK leadership have consistently denied the corruption charges, with Balaji’s reinstatement now serving as a powerful symbol of the party’s unity and resilience. His return comes at a crucial time as the DMK gears up for upcoming local body elections and begins preparing for the 2026 state elections.

A Strategic Realignment for the DMK

This cabinet reshuffle, which consolidates power within the DMK, demonstrates the party's confidence and focus on the future. With Udhayanidhi Stalin assuming a pivotal role, the DMK is positioning itself for long-term dominance in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, despite opposition accusations of nepotism. The inclusion of Senthil Balaji and other senior leaders in key ministries reflects the party's strategy of showcasing a united front.

As Tamil Nadu continues to navigate its relationship with the central government and other political challenges, this reshuffle sends a clear message: the DMK remains determined to retain power and shape the state’s future on its own terms.

Moving Forward

As Udhayanidhi Stalin settles into his new role as Deputy Chief Minister, and as Senthil Balaji resumes his ministerial duties, the DMK’s political moves will be closely watched by both its allies and opponents. The party's handling of criticism, coupled with its ongoing governance initiatives, will be critical in determining its trajectory in the years leading up to the next state election.

This reshuffle not only reshapes the government but also marks a new chapter in the DMK’s history, with the next generation of leadership beginning to take center stage.