Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) founder C Joseph Vijay signed his first official orders on Sunday soon after taking oath as the Chief Minister, announcing 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, the creation of a special task force for women’s safety and the establishment of anti-drug trafficking units across the state.
The announcements came immediately after Vijay assumed office at a grand swearing-in ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai. The event marked a historic political transition in Tamil Nadu, with TVK forming the first non-DMK and non-AIADMK government in the state in nearly six decades.
Governor R V Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy to Vijay, while nine ministers were also sworn in as part of the new cabinet. The ministry includes a mix of experienced political figures and younger leaders from Vijay’s core team, signalling a balance between administrative experience and fresh leadership.
First cabinet decisions focus on welfare and safety
One of the major decisions announced by the new Chief Minister was the provision of 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers. The move is expected to benefit lakhs of middle-class and lower-income households across Tamil Nadu, particularly amid rising living costs and inflationary pressures.
Apart from the electricity subsidy, Vijay approved the formation of a dedicated women’s safety task force. According to officials, the special unit will coordinate with police departments across districts to address crimes against women, strengthen preventive measures and ensure quicker responses to complaints.
The government also announced the establishment of anti-drug trafficking units to crack down on narcotics smuggling and substance abuse in the state. The initiative is likely to involve coordination between law enforcement agencies, educational institutions and local authorities to tackle the growing concern over drug-related activities among youth.
Political observers noted that the three decisions reflect Vijay’s attempt to combine welfare measures with governance and law-and-order priorities in the opening phase of his administration.
Vijay promises “real secularism and social justice”
In his maiden address after becoming Chief Minister, Vijay declared that Tamil Nadu was entering a “new era” committed to “real secularism and social justice”. Addressing party workers, alliance leaders and supporters, he emphasised that his government would prioritise inclusive governance and transparent administration.
Vijay also asserted that there would be no parallel power centres in the government. “I alone will be the centre of power,” he said, indicating his intention to maintain direct control over the administration and decision-making processes.
The actor-turned-politician thanked alliance partners, including the Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Left parties, for supporting TVK in forming the government.
He also made a special mention of children and young voters, saying their enthusiasm and influence on their families played a crucial role in TVK’s electoral success. “It is because of children persuading their families that we achieved this victory,” Vijay said during the speech.
Historic shift in Tamil Nadu politics
The formation of the TVK government marks a major shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, which had long been dominated by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
Vijay’s transition from cinema superstar to Chief Minister has drawn national attention, with several political leaders attending the swearing-in ceremony. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was among the prominent leaders present at the event.
Political analysts believe the rise of TVK reflects changing voter expectations, especially among younger demographics seeking alternative leadership in the state. Vijay’s strong popularity among youth and first-time voters is widely seen as a key factor behind the party’s electoral breakthrough.
The Chief Minister is expected to prove his majority on the floor of the Tamil Nadu Assembly through a vote of confidence on or before May 13.
Family expresses joy on historic day
Members of Vijay’s family expressed happiness and pride ahead of the swearing-in ceremony. Family members gathered at the residence of veteran filmmaker S A Chandrasekhar before leaving for the event and described the occasion as a “dream come true”.
The ceremony also coincided with Mother’s Day, adding emotional significance to the occasion.
Vijay’s mother, Shoba Chandrasekhar, expressed confidence in her son’s leadership abilities while speaking to reporters. “Vijay will lead this well; I have full faith in him,” she said.
She also conveyed Mother’s Day wishes to the public and described the political milestone as a memorable and meaningful gift for the family.
With his first set of welfare and governance measures already announced, Vijay has begun his tenure by signalling a focus on public welfare, women’s security and anti-drug enforcement. The coming weeks are expected to test how the new administration translates campaign promises into governance as Tamil Nadu enters a new political chapter.