 while replying){kind=link}
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay defended his government’s record, reiterated opposition to NEET
June 23, 2026: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay strongly defended his government and the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) while replying to the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address in the Assembly. Rejecting claims that TVK remains an “actor’s party,” Vijay said the party had earned its place through struggle and public support. Highlighting TVK’s electoral performance, he said the party secured significant backing despite political challenges and conspiracies, adding that its journey was built on transparency and trust. He also invoked the legacies of former leaders CN Annadurai and MG Ramachandran while urging the public to judge his administration based on its performance.
Vijay reiterated Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), arguing that it disadvantages students and increases educational inequality. He renewed the demand for medical admissions to be based on Class 12 marks rather than a national entrance examination. The Chief Minister also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the two-language policy of Tamil and English, maintaining that his government would continue to oppose any perceived attempt to impose Hindi on non-Hindi-speaking states. Referring to the Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives, Vijay expressed deep grief and criticised those who blamed his party for the tragedy.
The Assembly witnessed heated scenes when Vijay launched a strong attack on previous governments over alleged corruption. Responding to criticism about administrative experience, he said his government knew how to serve people but not how to misuse public funds. He accused earlier administrations of corruption in tenders, appointments, promotions and public revenue management. His remarks regarding alleged irregularities in TASMAC operations triggered protests from opposition members, particularly the DMK, leading to repeated disruptions in the House. Vijay, however, maintained that his government would remain committed to transparency, declaring that it would not misuse “a single paisa” of public money.