Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Sunday promised accountable and transparent governance in his first public address after taking oath, assuring the people that he would not fail them in the responsibility
entrusted to him.
Addressing party cadre and supporters after the swearing-in ceremony, the TVK chief said his government would focus on women’s safety, curb drug sales and ensure welfare for every section of society.
“You have given me a huge responsibility. But my request to you is to give me some time,” Vijay said in his address, before declaring, “I will never make a mistake.”
The actor-turned-politician also spoke about the challenges and humiliation he faced during his political journey and thanked supporters for standing by him through difficult times.
“There were many problems and many insults that I faced,” Vijay said.
“You considered these problems and insults as our own and faced them on my behalf,” he added, referring to the support extended by party cadre and the people.
PROMISE OF TRANSPARENT GOVERNANCE
In his first speech as Chief Minister, Vijay repeatedly stressed that his administration would function openly and honestly.
“We’ll have a transparent government,” he said.
“I will take it forward from there,” Vijay added, while outlining the direction of his government.
The newly sworn-in Chief Minister also assured the people that his government would remain accessible and accountable.
“As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, I won’t hide things or shy away from you,” he said.
Vijay’s remarks projected the TVK government as one that would seek direct engagement with the people and avoid secrecy in governance.
WOMEN SAFETY, DRUG CONTROL AMONG PRIORITIES
Highlighting the immediate priorities of his administration, Vijay said women’s safety would receive focused attention under the new government.
“I will focus on women’s safety,” he said.
The TVK chief also announced steps to tackle drug sales and substance abuse in the state.
“I’ll also take steps to contain drug sales. I’ll start this today itself,” Vijay declared.
His remarks triggered loud cheers from supporters and party cadres gathered at the venue.
“ALL THE 8 CRORE PEOPLE ARE MY PEOPLE”
Vijay also struck a conciliatory and inclusive tone in his speech, saying his government would work for all residents of Tamil Nadu regardless of political differences.
“If you are my friends or my enemies, all the 8 crore people are my people,” he said.
The Chief Minister further said the interests of farmers, fishermen and all communities would be protected under the TVK government.
“Farmers, fishermen community, all sections be taken care of by our TVK govt,” Vijay said.
The Chief Minister thanked TVK workers and supporters for their role in his political rise.
“I have to thank all of you, TVK cadre. You are my life, without you, I won’t be here,” he said.
The Chief Minister credited party cadre for standing with him through political attacks and criticism and said the new government would be built collectively with the support of the people.
“All of us together will give a fresh and new governance,” Vijay said.
VIJAY SWORN IN AS TAMIL NADU CHIEF MINISTER
Earlier in the day, TVK chief and Legislature Party Leader C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in a colourful ceremony held at the Nehru Stadium in Chennai.
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath administered the oath of office and secrecy to Vijay and members of his cabinet.
Amid continuous whistling by TVK cadre and in the presence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Vijay took the oath.
TVK leaders Aadhav Arjuna, N Anand and KA Sengottaiyan were among those who took oath as ministers in the Vijay-led cabinet.
