Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar officially took oath as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, marking a historic shift in the state’s political landscape.

In his first official orders as Chief Minister, Vijay announced 200 units of free electricity for the public, the formation of a special task force to combat drug-related crimes, and a dedicated women’s safety force along with a special helpline. He also assured that his government would prioritise education, healthcare, water management, farmers and fishermen.

Beginning his speech with the phrase “En Nenjil Kudiyirukkum,” meaning “who lives in my heart,” Vijay delivered an emotional address recalling his humble beginnings. He described himself as the son of an assistant director who rose through hardships, poverty and criticism to become Chief Minister.

“I did not come from a royal family. I know poverty and hunger. I am like your son, your brother and your younger sibling. You accepted me and gave me a place in your hearts,” he said.

TVK emerged as the single largest party in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections with 108 seats but fell short of the majority mark. After days of negotiations, the party secured support from Congress, VCK, CPI, CPI(M) and IUML, taking the alliance strength to 120 seats in the 234-member Assembly.

Vijay also promised transparent governance and stated that public funds would be protected from corruption. Calling it a “new era of real, secular and social justice,” he thanked alliance leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Praveen Chakravarty and Left leaders for their support.

The swearing-in ceremony marks the rise of Tamil Nadu’s first non-DMK and non-AIADMK government in nearly six decades. Vijay’s government is now expected to face a floor test in the Assembly before May 13.

Source / Image Credit : NDTV , chennaiist