Published Sep 21, 2026 | 6:13 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 21, 2026 | 6:13 PM
Tamil Nadu government logo.
Synopsis: Tamil Nadu’s TVK government has reportedly begun the hunt for a new Chief Secretary, with three senior 1993-batch IAS officers, S Vijayakumar, Gagandeep Singh Bedi and K Manivasan, emerging as possible contenders.
The Tamil Nadu government led by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has begun its hunt for the next Chief Secretary, with three senior IAS officers emerging as possible contenders for the top bureaucratic post, sources familiar with the development told South First.
M Sai Kumar, a 1990-batch IAS officer, was appointed as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Secretary ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. His original tenure ended in August 2026, but the Centre subsequently approved a six-month extension, allowing him to continue until 28 February.
With his extended tenure in place, the state government is now reportedly scouting for his successor, and the names of three senior bureaucrats have begun doing the rounds in administrative circles.
At the top of the list is S Vijayakumar, a 1993-batch IAS officer, currently serving as Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce Department.
Second in the race is Gagandeep Singh Bedi, another 1993-batch IAS officer who currently serves as Additional Chief Secretary, Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.
Bedi has held several key administrative assignments during his career, including senior positions in health, rural development and the Greater Chennai Corporation.
The third contender is K Manivasan, also a 1993-batch officer, currently the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Prohibition and Excise Department.
Interestingly, bureaucratic circles appear to have different views on who could eventually land the top post.
One section believes Vijayakumar could have an edge. He previously served as Principal Secretary to former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, giving him experience working closely with a Chief Minister and handling responsibilities at the highest levels of state administration.
Sources said the Vijay government could look to tap into that experience as it strengthens its administrative machinery.
However, another section is said to be backing Gagandeep Singh Bedi, with his extensive administrative experience making him another name to watch closely in the Chief Secretary race.
For now, the Tamil Nadu government has not officially confirmed the proposed change or the names being considered. The final decision will depend on the government’s assessment of seniority, administrative experience, and the administration’s requirements.
(Edited by Majnu Babu).
