‘We don’t know how to…’: Vijay’s blockbuster reply in Assembly sparks DMK walkout

In a dramatic session reminiscent of his on-screen heroics, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay delivered a robust reply to the Motion of Thanks on the Governor’s Address in the State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (June 23), sharply criticising the previous DMK regime on issues ranging from law and order to alleged corruption. The speech triggered immediate chaos, with DMK MLAs creating a ruckus and eventually walking out in protest.

Vijay transitioned from cinema to full-time politics through grassroots work dating back to the 1990s. He began with fan clubs that evolved into welfare initiatives via the Vijay Makkal Iyakkam (Vijay People’s Movement). Over the years, he supported causes including Eelam Tamils, Jallikattu protests, Sterlite demonstrations, flood and COVID relief, and local body elections.

Not only an actor

In 2024, he formally launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which swept to power in the 2026 Assembly elections, ending the DMK’s tenure. This is his first major legislative address as Chief Minister, and it carried the signature style of his blockbuster dialogues direct, emotional, and unapologetic.

Also read: How Vijay made Tamil cinema’s oldest political tradition his own, one lyric at a time

Speaking on the Governor’s Address, Vijay thanked all MLAs, including those who opposed him, and emphasised that criticism is the essence of democracy. He asserted that he did not enter politics as a “mere actor” but through decades of public service.

Key points from his address:

Defence of TVK governance

Vijay listed the achievements of his 10-week-old government, including the formation of a special women’s protection force (“Singappen”), special packages for Kuruvai paddy cultivation, power sector reforms, sealing of illegal quarries, closure of 717 TASMAC liquor shops, and securing stalled Jal Jeevan Mission funds from the Centre. He promised a “corruption-free, women-safe” administration.

Sharp attack on DMK

He blamed the previous DMK government for deteriorating law and order, power cuts, the drug menace, and crimes against women and children. Notably, he pointed out that Tamil Nadu had no Director General of Police (DGP) for 10 months under DMK rule and accused the party of collecting “party funds” through TASMAC outlets.

Also read: Vijay's TVK eyes Kerala, but Mullaperiyar stands in the way

‘We don’t know corruption’

In a series of rhetorical punches, Vijay declared: “We know how to serve the people, but we don’t know how to siphon off public money… We don’t know how to loot temple funds, transfer government revenue to personal coffers, or promote drug culture.” He contrasted this with what he called DMK’s alleged malpractices, including bribes for transfers and promotions.

Personal journey and resilience

Vijay recounted his journey from fan clubs to politics, stating that he entered every household before launching a party. He dismissed criticisms and satire: “Whoever mocks or satirises me, I don’t care.” He called his government a “common man’s rule” inspired by Annadurai, breaking caste and religious barriers in the 2026 elections.

Real, not reel

He concluded by stressing that real public service, not “reel” politics, defines his administration.

Also read: TN CM Vijay makes strong pitch for funds and projects, backs cooperative federalism

DMK MLAs reacted strongly to the allegations, particularly the TASMAC “party fund” reference, creating a ruckus and shouting slogans. The Speaker’s interventions failed to restore order. After Vijay concluded his speech, the Chair announced an opportunity for the Leader of Opposition, but DMK members continued protesting before staging a walkout.

Minister Aadhav Arjuna criticised the Opposition for remaining silent earlier and disrupting only when the CM began speaking.