Udhayanidhi Stalin's Promotion As Deputy CM Likely To Be Discussed At DMK Meet On Aug 16: Report

Further adding to the speculation, Minister Geetha Jeevan recently referred to Udhayanidhi as the "future Deputy Chief Minister".

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has scheduled a crucial meeting of its district secretaries on August 16 at the party headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, to discuss preparations for the upcoming Mupperum Vizha celebrations. The meeting, which will commence at 10:30 AM, is expected to focus on the arrangements for the annual event that commemorates key figures and milestones in the party's history. However, there is widespread speculation that the possible elevation of State Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin to the role of Deputy Chief Minister may also be on the agenda.

DMK Organising Secretary and Tamil Nadu Minister for Water Resources Duraimurugan announced the meeting late on Monday night, stating that the primary purpose would be to discuss the Mupperum Vizha celebration. The event honours the birth anniversary of DMK founder C.N. Annadurai on September 15, the party's foundation day on September 16, and the birth anniversary of the Dravidian ideologue E.V.S. Ramasamy Periyar on September 17.

Despite the official agenda, rumours have been swirling about Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, being elevated to the position of Deputy Chief Minister, according to a report on IANS. Speculation has intensified in recent days, particularly after Tamil Nadu Minister Rajakannappan referred to Udhayanidhi as the Deputy Chief Minister during a public function. Although he quickly retracted the comment, stating that he might use the title after August 19, the incident has fueled ongoing rumors.

Further adding to the speculation, Minister Geetha Jeevan recently referred to Udhayanidhi as the "future Deputy Chief Minister," a remark that has only heightened expectations within the party ranks and among political observers.

There are also reports suggesting that Udhayanidhi’s elevation could occur before Chief Minister M.K. Stalin embarks on a tour of the United States aimed at securing investments for the state.