PUDUCHERRY: In a long-awaited political development, the Puducherry Union territory cabinet was officially expanded on Wednesday with the swearing-in of three new ministers. The ceremony took place at the Old Lok Nivas near the Bharati Park, resolving weeks of anticipation regarding the government's full formation.
Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly appointed ministers. The event was attended by Chief Minister N Rangasamy, ministers, MLAs, and government officials. The three elected representatives who took the oath are Sivakolundhu (All India N R Congress), Rajavelu (AINRC), and Rajasekar (BJP).
Following the formal ceremony at Lok Nivas, the newly inducted ministers proceeded to the legislative assembly complex to officially take charge. The expansion comes on the heels of the recent assembly elections, where the NDA secured victory in 18 constituencies. On May 13, Rangasamy was sworn in as the Chief Minister, alongside A Namassivayam (BJP) and Malladi Krishna Rao (AINRC) as cabinet ministers.
Pro-tem Speaker A Anbalagan (AIADMK) assumed office on May 18, administering the oath to all newly elected MLAs on May 20. The cabinet expansion had been on hold until June 3, when Rangasamy submitted the recommended list of new ministers to the Lieutenant Governor. The file was forwarded to the Union Home Ministry and received official clearance from the President of India on June 8, paving the way for the swearing-in ceremony.
Speaking to the media following the expansion, Rangasamy expressed his immense satisfaction. "The cabinet expansion has been completed, and it brings great happiness. This full cabinet will function efficiently, and work dedicated to the welfare and development of the people," Rangasamy said.
Addressing questions regarding the next administrative steps, the Chief Minister confirmed that portfolios for all five ministers (including the two who were sworn in last month but are currently without portfolios) will be allocated very soon. When questioned about the upcoming election for the Assembly Speaker and whether the post would be allotted to the BJP or the AINRC, Rangasamy kept his cards close to his chest. "The election for the speaker will be announced shortly. Whether the post goes to the BJP or the AINRC will be revealed when it is officially assigned," he concluded.
