A senior DMK source confirmed that Udhayanidhi’s elevation is certain and will likely occur before CM Stalin’s scheduled trip to the United States on August 22.The primary motive is to unburden the Chief Minister, facilitating smoother governance. “This move will help groom Udhayanidhi with significant responsibilities,” a senior minister said, noting the necessity of preparing for the demanding 2026 assembly polls.Amid mixed opinions about Udhayanidhi’s political commitment in the state’s political circles, a senior minister dismissed doubts, asserting that the post was not imposed but requested by Udhayanidhi himself.“If he was a reluctant politician, he wouldn’t demand a heavier post. These rumors arise because of his youth and celebrity status,” the minister said. The deputy CM role will also enable Udhayanidhi to play a more prominent part in the 2026 election campaigns.The elevation coincides with a pending cabinet reshuffle based on ministerial performance. “The reshuffle decisions are not finalised yet but will take into account the performance of several ministers,” a senior DMK leader said.In January 2024, CM Stalin spoke about the rumors around his son’s promotion, describing them as unfounded and calling them “handiwork of rivals”. Stalin had also quoted Udhayanidhi’s words that all ministers in the cabinet, including him, were “working as deputies to the CM”.Asked about the reaction of party veterans to the decision, two senior DMK leaders said there will not be any issue as long as powerful ministers are not disturbed. “Problems emerge only if portfolios of powerful ministers are taken from them for Udhayanidhi. Otherwise there is no issue of Udhayanidhi’s elevation,” one leader said.The 46-year-old Udhayanidhi is also known for his influential film company Red Giants, which has a large stake in the production and distribution of Tamil and other South Indian films.Representing Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni in the assembly, his elevation to the deputy CM post has been anticipated for some time, but was delayed.Despite Stalin’s atheist stance, Udhayanidhi, his mother Durga Stalin and influential brother-in-law Sabareesan are believers, revealing a blend of personal beliefs within the family.Udhayanidhi’s elevation is not delayed as much as Stalin’s. Stalin faced a prolonged wait in the shadows before ascending within the DMK ranks, only securing a ministerial portfolio in his late 50s.While it was Durga Stalin who was initially determined her son should not endure a similar delay, Udhayanidhi too took a decision to enter an active political life, with a family consensus that he confront any dynastic succession challenges now rather than later.
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