RS Rajakannappan, formerly Milk and Dairy Development Minister, is now Minister for Forests and Khadi, replacing Dr. K Ponmudy, who resigned following backlash over controversial, religion-linked remarks about women
Published May 08, 2025 | 5:25 PM ⚊ Updated May 08, 2025 | 5:25 PM
Cabinet reshuffle in Tamil Nadu: Key portfolios exchanged amid controversy (@katpadidmk on X)
Synopsis: In a major Tamil Nadu cabinet reshuffle, Durai Murugan takes over the Law Department from S. Raghupathi, who is now in charge of Mines and Minerals. The portfolio swap, amid scrutiny over mineral exploitation, is seen as Chief Minister MK Stalin’s move to bolster governance and address growing public and judicial criticism
In a significant cabinet reshuffle, the Tamil Nadu government has announced major changes to ministerial portfolios, with senior DMK leader Durai Murugan taking over the Law Department from S Raghupathi.
In a reciprocal move, Raghupathi has been assigned the Mines and Minerals and Natural Resources Department, previously overseen by Durai Murugan.
The reshuffle, confirmed in a government communication, comes amid heightened public and judicial scrutiny over alleged large-scale mineral exploitation in the state.
The exchange of portfolios is seen as an effort by the MK Stalin-led administration to strengthen its governance framework and manage mounting criticism.
In another key change, RS Rajakannappan, who served as the Minister for Milk and Dairy Development, has been appointed the Minister for Forests and Khadi.
The move follows the resignation of Dr. K Ponmudy, who held the post earlier. Ponmudy stepped down after facing backlash over controversial remarks perceived as derogatory toward women and religious practices, which also led to his removal as DMK Deputy General Secretary.
The reshuffle also coincides with the exit of Minister Senthil Balaji, whose resignation, along with Ponmudy’s, was officially accepted by the Tamil Nadu Governor.
The exit of Senthil Balaji follows strong criticism from the Supreme Court over his continuation in office while being out on bail.
On 23 April, a two-judge bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih gave an ultimatum to Balaji to choose between continuing as a minister or retaining the bail granted to him in the cash-for-jobs scam case.
The exits mark a notable shift in the Stalin cabinet, signaling a response to internal dissent and public disapproval.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
