CM Vijay loses cool, lists DMK's corruption charges

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay lost his composure in the state Assembly on Monday, responding vehemently to accusations of corruption against the DMK. In a sudden shift from his prepared remarks, Vijay denounced a flood of abusive language aimed at women in public discourse. The contentious remarks unfolded amid a political standoff between the two parties, following a controversy over remarks made about actress Trisha.

Vijay asserted that harsh political criticism was fair game, but personal and defamatory attacks on women were not tolerated under any circumstances. He emphasized that he would not stand for abusive language directed at women, regardless of the source. "Women have been instrumental in my political success," Vijay stated, vowing to tolerate no abusive remarks against them.

The Chief Minister invoked the treatment meted out to former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa inside the Assembly, recalling a remark about breaking bones. He cautioned DMK members that such language was a reason why they now sat on the opposition benches. The remark drew protests from DMK members present in the House.

Moreover, Vijay read out portions of a letter from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the Tamil Nadu government, alleging that 7.5 to 10 percent of party funds were collected through contracts awarded during the DMK regime. He reiterated the allegation, citing extracts from the letter during his reply.

On matters of law and order, Vijay underscored the importance of the police department not only for safety and security but also for the state's overall growth. He cited the recent murder of a student in a Coimbatore college, with 36 arrests made in connection with the case. Vijay asserted that opposition parties often exploited such incidents to target the ruling government, but maintained that the recent crimes were driven by pre-existing enmity and revenge rather than a breakdown in law and order.

Vijay reiterated his commitment to hold everyone accountable, regardless of their political affiliations, emphasizing that everyone is equal before the law. Through his speech, Vijay repeatedly called for political decency and decorum in the Assembly, contrasting it with the personal remarks he alleged had been made by some opposition members. He expressed his love for Tamil Nadu and its eight crore people, vowing that his government would work solely for them.