In his first Independence Day address as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Vijay on Saturday urged people to break free from the constraints of caste and religion. He stated that genuine freedom would arrive once such divisions are overcome and described the battle against corruption as another aspect of liberty. Vijay noted that unity emerges when people recognize they have been treated as slaves, leading to the dissolution of barriers like religion and caste. He linked this process to the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi during the independence movement. Paying homage to those who sacrificed for the nation, the actor-turned-politician emphasized that the ideals of the freedom struggle should continue to shape society. He added that his administration is pursuing another form of freedom by working to eliminate corruption in Tamil Nadu and called on officials to support efforts toward a graft-free state. Vijay said his government would collaborate with the central administration on governance issues but would not yield on matters affecting state interests. He confirmed that beneficial welfare programs from prior governments, such as Amma Unavagam and the school breakfast scheme, would continue. The Chief Minister outlined plans to grow Tamil Nadu into a 1.5 trillion dollar economy by 2036 and appealed for ongoing public involvement beyond voting to ensure scheme implementation. He extended greetings to Tamils worldwide and younger generations, inviting them to participate in state development. New benefits for freedom fighters and their families were announced, and he thanked residents for their backing in overcoming divisions of caste, religion and wealth.
