Express Break: Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi to be elevated as Tamil Nadu deputy CM, move aimed at easing burden on CM

Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s youth welfare and sports development minister and the son of the Chief Minister M K Stalin, is set to be elevated as the Deputy Chief Minister before August 22, according to top sources in the DMK government. This elevation mirrors that of his father, M K Stalin, who became Deputy CM after the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

Udhayanidhi pushed for the promotion to gain “larger acceptance” within the government and to lighten the load on his father, it is learnt.

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