CM Vijay Calls for Freedom From Caste and Religious Divisions in First I-Day Speech

Chennai, August 15, 2026; Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, in his first Independence Day address, called for an end to caste and religious divisions, saying true freedom would be achieved when society breaks such barriers.

Addressing the Independence Day ceremony at Fort St George in Chennai on Saturday, Vijay said the spirit of India’s freedom struggle should continue to inspire people to overcome social divisions. He paid tribute to freedom fighters and highlighted the need for unity and equality.

The Chief Minister also described the fight against corruption as another form of freedom. He said his government was working to make Tamil Nadu free from corruption and urged officials to ensure transparent and accountable administration.

Vijay said his government was committed to good governance and claimed that efforts were underway to prevent public revenue from being diverted for private benefit. He also listed women’s safety, social justice and action against drug-related issues among the government’s priorities.

Without naming any specific group, the Chief Minister said attempts to destabilise his government and conspiracies against it would be defeated.

On relations with the Centre, Vijay said Tamil Nadu would cooperate with the central government on matters concerning administration and governance but would not compromise on the state’s interests.

The Chief Minister also said welfare programmes introduced by previous governments would continue if they benefited the public. He cited Amma Unavagam, launched during the AIADMK regime, and the breakfast scheme for schoolchildren introduced by the DMK government as examples.

Vijay further outlined an economic vision for Tamil Nadu, saying the state would work towards becoming a USD 1.5 trillion economy by 2036.

Appealing for continued public participation, he said voting alone was not enough and urged citizens to remain engaged with the government and support its development initiatives.

The Chief Minister also extended Independence Day greetings to Tamil people across the world and Gen Z, calling on them to contribute to Tamil Nadu’s development journey.