Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Defends Legitimacy, Calls to Scrap NEET

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay delivered his first major speech in the state assembly on Tuesday, forcefully defending his party's political legitimacy and outlining key policy positions. Addressing criticism that his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is merely an "actors party," Vijay asserted that his rise to power was the result of years of grassroots work and public trust.

In a speech during the Motion of Thanks to the Governor's address, Vijay directly responded to opposition remarks questioning his transition from cinema to politics. He dismissed suggestions that he moved directly from a film set to the chief minister's office as "just a reel." He stated that his party's foundation was built on sustained public engagement, citing activities dating back to 2008, including support for Sri Lankan Tamils, welfare schemes, and involvement in issues like Jallikattu and the Sterlite protests. He emphasized that his party secured its mandate through struggle, having faced conspiracies and restrictions.

Vijay highlighted TVK's electoral performance, noting the party won 108 of the state's 234 seats and secured around 35 percent of the vote in the 2026 assembly elections,...