Tamil Nadu Finance Minister O Paneerselvam was today back at the helm of affairs in the state, as Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao allocated the portfolios held by Chief Minister Jayalalithaa to the senior minister.
With Jayalalithaa continuing to remain in hospital since September 22, Paneerselvam will also preside over cabinet meetings, making him the de facto Chief Minister.
Paneerselvam had served as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for nearly eight months in 2014-15 when Jayalalithaa had to resign after her conviction in disproportionate assets case.
"Under Clause (3) of Article 166 of the Constitution of India, the Governor of Tamil Nadu today allocated the subjects hitherto dealt by Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to O Paneerselvam," a Raj Bhavan press release said.
The Raj Bhavan, however, added that AIADMK supremo will continue to be the Chief Minister.
Paneerselvam, who holds the Administrative reforms portfolio, in addition to Finance, "will also preside over cabinet meetings", it said.
"This arrangement has been made as per the advice of the Chief Minister and will continue until the Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa resumes her duties," it said.
"Jayalalithaa will continue to be the Chief Minister," the release added.
Jayalalithaa (68) was admitted to Apollo hospital on September 22 after she complained of fever and dehydration.
Yesterday, the hospital said she continued to be under treatment and was being constantly monitored by intensivists and other consultants in the expert panel, while respiratory support, antibiotics, nutrition, supportive therapy and passive physiotherapy were being given to her.
Meanwhile, The Tamil Nadu police today arrested two persons for spreading rumours on social media regarding Jayalalithaa’s health.
The police have registered a total of 43 cases against different people for spreading rumours about her health.
