Chennai, 01 June (H.S.):Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C. Joseph Vijay on Monday launched a strong political attack on the DMK and its allies, asserting that the people of Tamil Nadu had rejected caste-based politics and the influence of money power in the recent Assembly elections and handed his party a historic mandate for change.

Addressing a massive thanksgiving rally in Tiruchirappalli during his first visit to the city after assuming office as Chief Minister, Vijay thanked the voters of Tiruchirappalli East and the people of Tamil Nadu for placing their trust in him and the TVK. Describing himself as the state’s “first sevagan” (servant), he pledged to work tirelessly for the welfare and development of the people.

Vijay said the election verdict reflected the aspirations of ordinary citizens seeking transparent governance and a new political culture. He claimed that the mandate secured by the TVK had surpassed even the electoral debut of former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran, while acknowledging that MGR’s legacy remained unmatched in Tamil Nadu politics.

Taking a swipe at the Opposition, Vijay remarked that leaders who had promised to remain silent for six months after the formation of the government failed to do so even for six days. Dismissing criticism from rivals, he declared, “You keep talking, I will keep working,” drawing loud cheers from supporters.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the principal political contest in the state was now between the TVK and the DMK, identifying DMK president M.K. Stalin as his primary political rival. He alleged that several parties had attempted political manoeuvres in the final stages before the formation of the government but were unable to overturn the people’s verdict.

Vijay said continued scrutiny by the Opposition would help keep his government accountable and performance-oriented. He also welcomed growing public interest in Assembly proceedings, stating that democracy becomes stronger when citizens closely monitor elected representatives.

Highlighting his government’s early initiatives, Vijay pointed to the announcement of 200 units of free electricity and noted that the original 100-unit free power scheme had been introduced under former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. He said the government had also begun implementing promises related to TASMAC regulation and agricultural loan waivers.

Expressing concern over rising substance abuse and crimes against women, Vijay announced that the “Singappen” scheme aimed at strengthening women’s welfare and safety would be launched next week. He assured farmers of continued support and reaffirmed that agriculture would remain a key focus area of his administration.

Rejecting allegations of horse-trading, Vijay claimed that political opponents had attempted backdoor methods to secure power, but insisted that the TVK government had not engaged in such practices. He also said steps were being taken to curb vote-buying and promote cleaner electoral practices.

Promising a corruption-free and bribe-free administration, Vijay said his government would govern without discrimination, protect Tamil Nadu’s rights, safeguard its river water interests and uphold social justice. Stressing that all 234 Assembly constituencies belonged equally to the government, he assured that development would reach every corner of the state.

Hinting at the upcoming Tiruchirappalli East by-election, Vijay indicated that the TVK was likely to field a local candidate. Concluding his speech, he declared that no political force could separate him from the people and described his bond with the voters of Tamil Nadu as unbreakable.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman