First Public Rally as CM: Vijay Rejects Horse-Trading Charges, Hits Out at Opposition

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay used his first major public address after taking office to strongly rebut allegations of horse-trading and criticize the state's two traditional political rivals, the DMK and AIADMK .

Speaking at a public gathering in Tiruchirappalli on Monday , Vijay said his government was formed through the clear mandate of the people and not through political manoeuvring . He rejected accusations from opposition parties that his camp had resorted to horse-trading to secure power.

The Chief Minister alleged that the DMK and AIADMK had been exploring possibilities to come together after the Assembly election results in an attempt to retain influence. According to Vijay, the two parties were more interested in protecting their political interests than respecting the electorate's verdict.

In a sharp critique of the DMK, Vijay blamed what he described as the party's entrenched family-centric politics for its electoral setback. He argued that voters had chosen change over established political traditions and expressed confidence that a new political chapter had begun in Tamil Nadu.

Referring to his role in government, Vijay said he preferred to see himself as the people's " first sewak " rather than merely holding the title of Chief Minister. He pledged to work with a sense of public service and remain accountable to the citizens who placed their trust in his leadership.

The rally marked Vijay's first large-scale public interaction since he was sworn in as Chief Minister on May 10 . Thousands of supporters attended the event, which was organized as a thanksgiving meeting following his party's electoral victory.

The speech also signalled the beginning of what is expected to be an aggressive political battle between Vijay's administration and the opposition, with the Chief Minister making it clear that he intends to challenge both the DMK and AIADMK in the months ahead.