In first speech as CM, Vijay promises to address drug abuse, women's safety

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay on Sunday struck an emotional and combative tone in his first address after assuming office, presenting himself as an “ordinary man” shaped by poverty while promising transparent governance, strict action against corruption, women’s safety and a crackdown on drugs.

Addressing the massive audience that had gathered at Chennai's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for his oath-taking ceremony, Vijay signed key welfare files — one each for 200 units of free electricity, a Singa Penne scheme for women's safety, and measures for zero drug-tolerance. These were part of his poll promises.

Hardhip and trust

Vijay said his rise to power was rooted in hardship and public trust. “I’m like any of you. I’m an ordinary man,” he said. “I will never give you false promises. I’ll only say what I can deliver.”

Recalling his childhood, Vijay said his father worked as a struggling assistant director and the family had experienced poverty first-hand. “You encouraged me to enter politics,” he told the crowd, adding that he was confident his government could overcome any challenge.

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But Vijay also cautioned that his government was inheriting a severe financial crisis.

“Rs 10 lakh crore of debt is lying with the state. The coffers are empty. They’ve left us with a huge burden. We are taking over the government at this point,” he said.

Call for patience

Seeking patience from the public, Vijay announced that a white paper on the state’s finances would soon be released.

“We need to figure things out. I’ll release a white paper on the status. I wish to be transparent and take it forward from there,” he said, adding: “No need to close your face and meet people. Let’s be open.”

Even as he appealed for time, Vijay assured people that governance priorities would be immediate and clear.

“Please be patient with me. Give me some time. This is your government,” he said. “I’m particular about women’s safety. From today, I’ll fight the drug culture and save our children.”

Law and order

Promising firm law and order, Vijay declared that his administration would function without fear or favour. “Law and order is a promise from me. Even for those who humiliated me. I’ll focus first on basic needs,” he said.

In one of the sharpest moments of the speech, Vijay vowed to run a corruption-free administration and warned even his own legislators against misuse of power.

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“I’ll not take a paisa from people’s money. This Vijay will not do wrong things,” he said. “He will not allow others to err, including those in his government.”

“My MLAs dare not get corrupt. I’m the only centre here. No power centres anymore,” he added.

Minority outreach

Vijay also reached out to minority communities, seeking to reassure them of inclusivity under his leadership. “Minority communities need have no fear. My government stands with all people,” he said.

Thanking children and young supporters who backed him, the actor-turned-politician struck a personal note. “I wish to thank children, who made this possible for me. Vijay mama promises to help you all and ensure you have a good future,” he said.

He concluded by thanking leaders of alliance parties and political allies, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, CPI(M) general secretary MA Baby, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan and CPI leader D. Raja, among others.

Calling it “a new beginning” and “a new era,” Vijay urged supporters to help build “real, secular, social justice governance”.

The speech ended on a celebratory note as the Chief Minister took a selfie with the cheering crowd.