C. Joseph Vijay delivered an emotional and politically significant first public address on Sunday after taking oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, promising transparent governance, women's safety and welfare-focused administration under the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government.
Addressing party workers and supporters shortly after the swearing-in ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, Vijay thanked the people of Tamil Nadu for placing their trust in him and assured them that he would fulfil the responsibility with sincerity.
"You have given me a huge responsibility. My request to you is to give me some time," Vijay said during his speech. "I will never make a mistake," he added, drawing loud cheers from supporters gathered at the venue.
In one of the key moments of his address, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister struck an inclusive tone and said his government would work for every resident of the state regardless of political differences.
"If you are my friends or my enemies, all the 8 crore people are my people," Vijay said, emphasising unity and inclusive governance.
Vijay also assured the public that his administration would remain transparent and accessible.
"As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, I won't hide things or shy away from you. We'll have a transparent government," he said.
Outlining the priorities of the new administration, Vijay said women's safety and action against drug abuse would receive focused attention under the TVK government.
"I will focus on women's safety," he said while discussing the roadmap of the new government.
The Chief Minister further stated that the welfare of farmers, fishermen and all sections of society would remain central to government policy.
"Farmers, fishermen community, all sections will be taken care of by our TVK government," Vijay said.
The actor-turned-politician also reflected on the challenges he faced during his political journey and thanked party cadre for standing by him through difficult phases.
"There were many problems and many insults that I faced," Vijay said emotionally.
He credited TVK workers and supporters for helping him transition from cinema superstar to Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
"I have to thank all of you, TVK cadre. You are my life. Without you, I won't be here," he told supporters.
Calling for collective participation in governance, Vijay said the new administration would work together with the people to bring change in the state.
"All of us together will give a fresh and new governance," he added.
Meanwhile, an emotional family moment linked to the swearing-in ceremony also went viral on social media on Sunday. A resurfaced photograph showed Vijay's mother, Shobha Chandrasekhar, affectionately hugging and kissing her son on the cheek as he smiled warmly.
The image gained widespread attention online, especially as Vijay's oath-taking ceremony coincided with Mother's Day celebrations. Several social media users described Vijay becoming Chief Minister as a proud and emotional moment for his family.
Earlier during the ceremony, Vijay's parents, veteran filmmaker S. A. Chandrasekhar and Shobha Chandrasekhar, were seated in the front row at the venue to witness the historic occasion. Shobha Chandrasekhar also drew attention for her elegant appearance in a white saree with soft pink floral prints during the event.
