CM Vijay Addresses Criticism in Assembly
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay spoke before the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, June 23, 2026.
The address occurred during the session for the Motion of Thanks to the Governor's address.
Chief Minister Vijay stated that he possessed nearly two decades of experience in public advocacy and defended his government's performance during the speech.
Governance Record and Party Allegations
Vijay asserted that his administration represents a continuation of the 1967 spirit, focusing governance on common people.
The Chief Minister criticized dynastic politics while stating that all families in Tamil Nadu are important.
He accused opposition parties of disseminating false allegations concerning the deterioration of law and order.
Vijay questioned why previous administrations failed to control narcotics circulation, noting that the issue predated his government.
TASMAC Funds and Assembly Conduct
The Chief Minister claimed that funds previously collected as "party funds" through the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) were now being directed into the state treasury.
Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin and DMK MLAs objected to CM Vijay's remarks on "party funds," leading to a heated debate and a walkout by DMK legislators, according to reports from the assembly floor.
Criticism Regarding Scripted Remarks
Udhayanidhi Stalin accused Chief Minister Vijay of transforming the Assembly into a "cinema" during his address.
The opposition leader alleged that members whistled while proceedings were scripted for social media, according to statements made in the assembly.
Vijay rejected allegations that his government was a "B-team" of any political party and stated its strength derived solely from the people's mandate.
Policy Stances on Education
The Chief Minister reiterated Tamil Nadu's opposition to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), advocating for admissions based on Class 12 marks, according to his speech notes.
Vijay reaffirmed support for the two-language policy during the address.
Assembly Anthem Controversy
The Chief Minister challenged DMK criticism regarding the playing of the National Anthem before the state anthem by citing official Assembly records from 2021 showing the National Anthem preceded Tamil Thaai Vazhthu during the DMK's tenure, according to documents presented in the assembly.
Interpretations of Gestures and References
Vijay narrated a story widely interpreted by observers as an indirect reference to former DMK president M.K. Stalin's defeat in the Kolathur Assembly constituency.
After seeking the Speaker's permission, Vijay concluded his address with a hand gesture described as a "swag pose," which some interpreted as mocking M.K. Stalin, according to reports from the assembly floor.