Vijay Takes Oath as Tamil Nadu CM: Signs 200 Units Free Power as First File

Actor-turned-politician C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the 13th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday morning, marking a historic political shift in the state. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief took the oath in Tamil at a ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.

A brief interruption during oath

As Vijay began reciting the oath, he added a few extra words beyond the prescribed text. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar intervened briefly, asking him to read only what was written. The CM-designate nodded and continued without further interruption.

Rahul Gandhi shared the stage with Vijay during the ceremony. The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha arrived in Chennai around 8:40 am and departed after the event.

Nine ministers take oath

Alongside Vijay, nine other MLAs from TVK took oath as ministers. The cabinet includes N Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, Dr KG Arunraj, KA Sengottaiyan, P Venkataramanan, R Nirmalkumar, Rajmohan, Dr TK Prabhu, and Selvi S Keerthana. No MLA from any alliance partner found a place in the first cabinet.

First files signed

Soon after assuming office, Vijay signed his first set of official documents. The orders included 200 units of free electricity for households, formation of a special task force for women's safety, and an anti-drugs squad. The actor-turned-CM received a guard of honour at the secretariat shortly after.

The road to the chair

Vijay met Governor Arlekar for the fourth time on Saturday, submitting letters of support from MLAs of TVK, Congress, CPI, CPM, VCK and IUML. The Governor then invited him to form government. TVK, formed just two years ago, won 108 out of 234 seats in its first assembly election. This is the first time since 1967 that a non-Dravidian party has come to power in Tamil Nadu.

Celebrations and congratulations

TVK supporters burst firecrackers and distributed sweets outside Vijay's parents' residence and across several districts. Actor Trisha Krishnan attended the ceremony, while Kamal Haasan, MK Stalin, Naveen Patnaik, and PM Modi extended congratulations.

Vijay Sworn in as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in Simple Attire

Actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay took oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, marking a striking shift in the state's political landscape. The Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief chose a modern, understated look and delivered an unconventional oath-taking moment that quickly became the talk of the day at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The ceremony drew thousands of supporters, turning the venue into a sea of enthusiasm rarely seen during routine swearing-ins. Vijay, known for his massive fan following, opted for a white shirt and black pants instead of the traditional veshti and shirt that leaders like M.G. Ramachandran and M. Karunanidhi favoured in the past. His choice was widely interpreted as a deliberate signal to connect with younger voters and project a fresh image.

Modern Look Sparks Discussion

Vijay’s decision to skip conventional Tamil political attire stood out immediately. Past Chief Ministers often appeared in white dhoti, shirts, and symbolic accessories like caps or shawls. Political observers noted that the actor’s crisp, formal outfit aligned with his long-standing appeal among urban and youth demographics. The move is being seen as part of his broader effort to reshape political symbolism in the state.

Governor Interrupts During Oath

In a departure from protocol, Vijay began speaking beyond the prescribed text after saying “I, Joseph Vijay...” The Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, politely intervened and asked him to stick to the written oath. Vijay then completed the formal recitation, which included commitments to the Constitution, upholding India’s unity and integrity, performing duties according to his conscience, and ensuring justice for all without fear or favour.

The brief exchange added an element of spontaneity to the otherwise solemn proceedings. Officials later clarified that the Governor had guided the process both before and after the moment.

Emotional Moment for Vijay’s Parents

One of the most touching scenes was Vijay’s parents listening to the oath with folded hands. Veteran filmmaker S.A. Chandrashekhar and noted singer-writer Shobha Chandrasekhar appeared visibly moved as their son assumed the state’s top post. The family moment resonated widely among those present and viewers following the live coverage.

Historic Stadium Ceremony and Applause

For the first time in Tamil Nadu’s history, the oath-taking was held inside a stadium rather than an open ground. Vijay’s long association with the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium — from film launches to fan club meetings — influenced the choice of venue. As soon as he uttered “I am C. Joseph Vijay,” the crowd erupted in prolonged applause lasting nearly three minutes, forcing a brief pause before he could continue.

Rahul Gandhi’s Presence and Selfie

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was the only prominent national leader on stage. In an informal moment, Vijay took a selfie with him. Sources recalled that Vijay had explored joining the Congress around 2009 and had met Rahul, who was then the party’s general secretary. Though those plans did not materialise, the cordial presence on Sunday underscored lingering political warmth.

Immediate Governance Actions

Within an hour of taking charge, the new Chief Minister issued key orders. He cleared a file providing 200 units of free electricity to domestic consumers — a move expected to bring relief to middle-class and lower-income households. Vijay also sanctioned the creation of a special force dedicated to women’s safety, signalling early focus on public security and welfare.

Public Reactions and Expectations

Crowds outside the stadium and across Chennai expressed both excitement and high expectations. Many supporters, especially from Vijay’s fan base turned political cadre, saw the swearing-in as the beginning of a new chapter. Critics, however, wondered how the former actor would translate star power into effective administration amid the state’s complex challenges.

Political analysts pointed out that Vijay’s rise reflects changing voter preferences, particularly among younger and aspirational sections seeking alternatives to traditional Dravidian party dominance. His emphasis on simplicity, direct communication, and swift decisions in the first hours has already set a distinct tone.

The coming weeks will test the new government’s ability to deliver on promises while managing coalition realities and administrative transitions. For now, the stadium ceremony and its memorable moments have given Tamil Nadu politics a fresh, cinematic flavour.