Is Udhayanidhi Ready To Become Deputy CM To Stalin? Here's What He Says

Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has put an end to the rumours of him being promoted as the deputy to his father and Chief Minister MK Stalin.

Speaking at a DMK youth wing event marking its 45th anniversary, he clarified that the media reports were speculative. He stated, "The news circulating in the media about the Deputy CM post is mere speculation. Whatever decisions are made by our leader, MK Stalin, will be accepted with respect and commitment."

The junior Stalin mentioned that every minister in the cabinet functions as a deputy to the Chief Minister. He also expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement from the youth wing. The event saw a resolution passed by the youth wing, expressing their backing for his elevation

Earlier this year, plans to appoint Udhayanidhi as Deputy CM was reportedly shelved due to two major controversies: the Sanatana Dharma issue and the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy. In January, Udhayanidhi faced backlash for comparing Sanatana Dharma to "malaria" and "dengue," advocating for its eradication. His comments drew widespread criticism and led to multiple complaints, prompting Supreme Court intervention.

The fallout these remarks and the tragic incident in Kallakurichi involving illicit alcohol consumption reportedly delayed his proposed appointment as Deputy CM. Despite these setbacks, Udhayanidhi continues to serve as Tamil Nadu's Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development.

AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan criticised DMK over these developments, stating, "The speculations about a cabinet reshuffle and the Prince Udhayanidhi becoming the deputy chief minister is not new. What is happening in Tamil Nadu is DMK is running a dynasty rule in the name of democracy. Father, son, grandson, great-grandson, and that is the DNA of DMK."

Sathyan further claimed that AIADMK had been predicting Udhayanidhi's elevation for two years. He added that after the parliament elections, Udhayanidhi would be promoted and positioned as DMK's chief ministerial candidate for the 2026 elections. He concluded by saying this would mark "the greatest fall and end of the DMK."