Actor-turned-politician Vijay has taken office as Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister, immediately launching a sharp attack on the preceding DMK government. Hours after his swearing-in ceremony in Chennai, Vijay alleged that the state's finances had severely deteriorated over the past five years, claiming the DMK had "emptied the treasury" and left a staggering Rs 10 lakh crore debt.
Vijay Vows Financial Transparency Amid Debt Claims
Addressing the press post-oath, Chief Minister Vijay declared his administration would publish a white paper detailing Tamil Nadu's financial status for the 2021–2026 period. This move signals an impending confrontational political battle over the state's economic health.
First Actions as Chief Minister: Welfare and Safety Initiatives
Beyond the financial allegations, CM Vijay's first official acts included signing files to fulfill key election promises. These initiatives include providing 200 units of free electricity for households and establishing dedicated task forces to combat drug-related crimes and enhance women's safety across the state.
Oath Ceremony and Cabinet Formation
The 51-year-old founder of TVK took his oath of office at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, administered by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. His government secured the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member Assembly, backed by a coalition including Congress, CPI, CPI(M), Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). Rahul Gandhi was among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
Alongside Chief Minister Vijay, nine other TVK MLAs were sworn in as ministers. The new cabinet members include N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, K G Arunraaj, K A Sengottaiyan, P Venkataramanan, C T R Nirmal Kumar, A Rajmohan, Keerthana, and K T Prabhu. The Congress party, despite previously aligning with the DMK, extended its support to the TVK to facilitate government formation.