CHENNAI: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday launched a blistering attack on the DMK and its allies while addressing a public rally in Tiruchirappalli, asserting that the people had rejected caste and money power politics and handed the TVK-led government a historic mandate.
Thanking voters for making him the state's "first sevagan", Vijay said his government would remain focused on welfare, transparency and people-centric governance despite relentless criticism from rivals.
* Greeting the people of Tamil Nadu and extending special thanks to voters of Tiruchirappalli East, Vijay said the constituency would always hold a special place in his heart.
* Vijay took a swipe at the Opposition, saying those who claimed they would remain silent for six months after the formation of the government had failed to stay quiet even for six days.
* Calling himself the people's "first sevagan", he thanked voters for elevating him to the post of Chief Minister and pledged to work tirelessly for the welfare of the state.
* Referring to the election verdict, Vijay said caste equations and money power had been defeated by the people's aspirations and desire for change.
* He said the mandate received by the TVK had surpassed even the debut electoral performance of the late MGR, while acknowledging that MGR's legacy remained unmatched.
* Urging critics to continue speaking against him, Vijay said, "You keep talking, I will keep working."
* Responding to criticism over his attire, he questioned why wearing a suit should become a political issue, adding that he mostly preferred his signature black-and-white colours.
* Reiterating that the principal political contest in Tamil Nadu was between the TVK and the DMK, Vijay said his direct political rival remained DMK president MK Stalin.
* He alleged that the DMK and several other parties attempted political manoeuvres during the final days before government formation, but failed to alter the people's verdict.
* Vijay said the DMK's continued opposition would ultimately benefit the TVK by keeping the government accountable and focused on performance.
* Referring to increased public interest in Assembly proceedings and governance, he welcomed greater political awareness among citizens and said democracy was strengthened when people closely monitored elected representatives.
* Taking exception to remarks allegedly made against voters, Vijay said leaders who misunderstood or insulted the people had paid the political price for doing so.
* "This Vijay is the true representative of the people of Tamil Nadu," he declared.
* Vijay said no political force could separate him from the people and described his bond with voters as unbreakable.
* On welfare measures, he highlighted the government's announcement of 200 units of free electricity, while noting that the first 100-unit free power scheme had been introduced during the tenure of former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa.
* He said action had been initiated on promises relating to TASMAC regulation and that the government had provided agricultural loan waivers to the extent possible.
* Assuring farmers of continued support, Vijay said their welfare would remain a priority for the administration.
* Expressing concern over substance abuse and crimes against women, he announced that the "Singappen" scheme would be launched next week as part of efforts to enhance women's welfare and safety.
* Rejecting allegations of horse-trading, Vijay alleged that political rivals had attempted backdoor methods to secure power, while maintaining that the TVK government had not engaged in such practices.
* He said the government had taken steps to curb vote-buying and ensure cleaner electoral politics.
* Vijay promised that the TVK administration would govern without discrimination and would protect state rights, river water interests and social justice.
* He said all 234 Assembly constituencies belonged equally to the government and assured people that development would reach every region of Tamil Nadu.
* Referring to the upcoming bypoll, Vijay hinted that the party would field a local candidate from Tiruchirappalli East.
* Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister promised a corruption-free and bribe-free administration, saying his sole mission was to work for the people and deliver good governance.