TVK Chief C Joseph Vijay signed the first set of documents after taking oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Announcing a series of welfare and governance measures,the TVK chief promised 200 units of free power supply and a special task force to tackle drugs, and to ensure the safety of women in the state.
Vijay pledged to run a “transparent government” and said a white paper detailing the financial status left behind by the previous Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam administration would soon be released.
"After reviewing everything, I intend to release a white paper to the people. I want my government to be a transparent government. That is the very first thing I want to do. As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, if I need to meet someone, I will not do it secretly or behind closed doors. Whatever I do, I will do openly and transparently. I request all of you to give me some time. I will gradually fulfil everything I have promised and will sincerely strive to implement them. This is your government. I will ensure strict safety for women," Vijay said.
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Vijay Targets Previous DMK Govt Over Finances
The newly-elected Chief Minister accused the previous DMK government of leaving behind severe financial strain and alleged that the state treasury had been depleted.
"Today, the condition in which our Tamil Nadu government has been left is something I have seen for myself. The last government has gone out after borrowing debts of more than Rs 10 lakh crore; the treasury has been completely emptied before they left office. It is in such a situation that we have taken charge. I am not saying this for effect; only after going inside and seeing things firsthand can one understand what is there and what is not," he said.
Vijay, however, maintained that despite financial challenges, his administration would focus on public welfare and essential services.
Emphasising education, roads and drinking water facilities as key priorities, Vijay said his government would function responsibly with public funds.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to several opposition and alliance leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, K C Venugopal, Thol Thirumavalavan and P Shanmugam.
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