As you are aware, C. Joseph Vijay recently became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. According to The Indian Express, a group of individuals close to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is under investigation. This group includes political consultants, film managers, production controllers, campaign strategists, journalists, business partners, and long-time loyalists.
Questions Raised Over Vijay’s Informal Network; Opposition Targets Role of Close Associates
According to reports, certain individuals considered close to Chief Minister Vijay operate actively across the party organization, government administration, and his personal inner circle. This has sparked a debate regarding the boundaries between official government business and private influence.
The opposition questions why, if non-governmental individuals are influencing policy-making and critical decisions, their identities only come to light through social media posts or political allegations.
Demand for FIR Lodged with DGP
According to an Indian Express report, DMK Organizing Secretary RS Bharathi submitted a complaint to the Director General of Police (DGP) on June 30, demanding the registration of an FIR against John Arokiasamy and Vishnu Reddy.
The complaint alleges that both individuals have participated in cabinet meetings chaired by the Chief Minister, government review meetings, and other sensitive discussions, despite not being government officials.
Citing the Official Secrets Act
The complaint suggests a potential violation of legal provisions, including the Official Secrets Act. The complainants argue that the Chief Minister is sworn to protect confidential government proceedings, and the presence of unauthorized persons at such meetings could be a breach of regulations.
Both Individuals Considered Close to Vijay
Reports indicate that Vishnu Reddy is regarded as a very close associate of Vijay, while John Arokiasamy is counted among the key figures responsible for formulating political strategy. Both are said to have played a significant role in strengthening Vijay’s active presence in Tamil Nadu politics.
DMK MP Also Raises Questions
DMK MP P. Wilson has also recently questioned the presence of these two individuals at high-level government meetings. He asked by what authority they were included in meetings where confidential documents are allegedly discussed, given that neither holds a government position. It was also alleged that two rooms were made available to these two individuals near the Chief Minister’s office, sparking fresh speculation about their access to and influence within the administration.
TVK Dismisses Allegations as Baseless
However, sources close to TVK told The Indian Express that the opposition’s allegations are factually incorrect. They claim there are valid government orders authorizing John Arokiasamy and Vishnu Reddy to attend necessary meetings.
Growing Role of Close Associates
According to reports, the matter is not limited to just these two individuals.
Jagadish Palanisamy – Vijay’s long-time manager who also handles the work of several prominent Tamil actors—announced his government appointment via an Instagram post while wishing Vijay a happy birthday on June 22.
A senior TVK leader stated that this appointment had been finalized about four days prior to the public announcement. They noted that, unlike Vishnu Reddy and John Arokiasamy, Jagadish made his appointment public by highlighting his proximity to the Chief Minister.
Other Key Appointments Also in Focus
The report also mentions that K. Venkata Narayana—Chairman of the Bengaluru-based KVN Group and producer of Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayakan – has been appointed as Tamil Nadu’s Special Representative in New Delhi. This is considered a cabinet-rank position, primarily responsible for coordinating between the state and central governments.
Similarly, renowned cinematographer Manoj Paramahamsa, who has worked on several of Vijay’s films, has been appointed as the head of the Tamil Nadu government’s MGR Film and Television Institute.
Talk of Five Informal Advisors
According to “The Indian Express” report, there are reportedly five informal associates within Vijay’s inner circle who provide political advice, strategic suggestions, and administrative feedback.
This group reportedly includes an individual who was previously considered close to opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin and is also a relative of Vishnu Reddy.
Two senior journalists are also said to be part of this group. Among them, one is reportedly a former editor of a Tamil magazine, while the other is a veteran media personality. Although neither holds an official position within the government or the party, reports indicate that they are consulted on matters such as administrative decisions, the transfer of officials, and coordination.
Additionally, two other individuals are said to have ties to both the film industry and politics. These include a trusted former production controller and Public Relations Officer (PRO) associated with actor Vijay, and a Left-wing MP who has won Lok Sabha elections twice with the support of the DMK alliance.
Note: This article is based on a report published in The Indian Express as well as claims and allegations made by the concerned parties. Responses from the relevant partie
