Congress Hails Vijay’s Rise As New Generation Politics

New Delhi: As C. Joseph Vijay took oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, the Congress said the state had embraced “a new generation, a new voice and a new imagination,” with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge backing Vijay at the helm of Tamil Nadu’s first non-DMK, non-AIADMK government in nearly 60 years.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, who attended “Thalapathy” Vijay’s swearing-in ceremony in Chennai, posted pictures from the event on X.

Vijay was sworn in as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister at a colourful ceremony, ushering in the first non-DMK, non-AIADMK government in the southern state in nearly 60 years.

“Tamil Nadu has chosen. A new generation. A new voice. A new imagination. My good wishes to Thiru Vijay — may he fulfil the hopes of the people of Tamil Nadu,” Gandhi said on X.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said he was confident that under the TVK chief’s leadership, the ideals that have long defined the state’s political and social consciousness would continue to guide governance.

“On the swearing-in of Thiru TVK Vijay as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party and the entire progressive alliance,” Kharge said on X.

He said the formation of the government reaffirmed the enduring strength of self-respect, social justice, empowerment and rational thought — values that have long defined Tamil Nadu’s political and social consciousness. He added that this was the legacy shaped by Periyar and Kamaraj.

“Millions of people across Tamil Nadu, especially the aspirational youth, have placed their trust in the TVK. I am confident that under his leadership, these ideals will continue to guide governance and inspire the nation,” Kharge said.

“Wishing the new government great success in serving the people with compassion, inclusivity and commitment,” the Congress chief said.

Vijay’s Cabinet was a mix of youth and experience, with the TVK chief’s core team finding a place in the maiden ministry of the 51-year-old actor-turned-politician.

In his first address, Vijay said he was not from any royal lineage and that people had welcomed and accepted him. He also said he would not deceive people with false promises.

Vijay’s parents, S.A. Chandrasekhar and Shobha, actor Trisha and several dignitaries attended the ceremony at the sprawling Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.