Vijay Targets DMK Over Corruption, Promises Crackdown In Debut Assembly Speech

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) during his maiden speech in the state Assembly, pledging a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and assuring strict action against anyone found misusing public funds. Speaking during the motion of thanks to Governor Rajendra Arlekar’s June 18 address, Vijay said his government was committed to transparency and accountability in administration.

The chief minister alleged that corruption was prevalent not only in the operations of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), which manages state-run liquor retail outlets, but also across several government departments. He claimed that funds collected in the name of “party funds” had contributed to irregularities and vowed that his administration would act decisively against those responsible for financial misconduct.

Emphasising his government's anti-corruption stance, Vijay said public money would be protected under all circumstances. He declared that neither he nor his administration would allow any misuse of taxpayers’ funds and warned that individuals involved in corruption would face consequences regardless of their position or influence. He further stated that as instances of corruption came to light, those responsible would be exposed and held accountable.

Also Read: CM Vijay Responds To DMK Remarks, Defends Governance And Social Justice Record

The remarks triggered protests from the opposition benches. As Vijay addressed the House, Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin and DMK legislators objected to his comments. The protest eventually culminated in a walkout by opposition members, highlighting the growing political tensions between the ruling government and the DMK.

The chief minister also responded to criticism regarding the singing of the National Anthem twice during the Governor’s address in the Assembly. Opposition parties had questioned the protocol, prompting Vijay to cite a previous precedent from August 2, 2021, during the centenary celebrations of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. He noted that the National Anthem had been sung twice on that occasion as well, before the Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu, during an event attended by the President of India.

Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar intervened during the debate and supported the chief minister’s position, stating that the precedent cited by Vijay had indeed occurred in the House. The exchange underscored both the political disagreements and procedural disputes that marked Vijay’s first major speech in the Assembly, as his government sought to defend its policies while outlining its agenda on governance and anti-corruption measures.

Also Read: Udhayanidhi Stalin Targets Vijay With 'Wife Looking For Husband' Comment