Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Emphasizes Belief in God Amidst Periyar's Ideologies
In a recent assembly address, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay articulated his party's alignment with the social philosophies of E.V. Ramasamy Periyar while clarifying their belief in God, diverging from Periyar's atheistic views. He emphasized the adoption of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's ideals of social justice and Kamaraj's model of governance. Vijay defended his party's political journey, highlighting its significant electoral performance in the upcoming 2026 elections, and addressed challenges faced along the way. His remarks also included a critique of the previous government's corruption and a call for accountability in politics. This speech underscores the evolving political landscape in Tamil Nadu as the elections approach.
| Jun 23, 2026, 12:59 IST
Vijay's Stance on Periyar's Philosophies
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay addressed the assembly on Monday, stating that while his party embraces the extensive social theories of E.V. Ramasamy Periyar, recognized as the father of Dravidian politics, they do not align with his views on atheism and the rejection of religious beliefs. Clarifying the distinction between Periyar's rationalist thinking and his party's stance, Vijay remarked that they have not accepted Periyar's dismissal of religious beliefs, yet they fully adopt his broader principles. He emphasized their belief in God while acknowledging Periyar's teachings. Vijay reiterated that they are not opposed to any ideology.
While expressing gratitude for the Governor's address, Vijay noted that his administration draws inspiration from various ideologies, including those of Periyar, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and former Chief Minister K. Kamaraj.
Adopting Ambedkar's Ideals
Vijay highlighted that his government has embraced the ideals of equal opportunity and social justice as advocated by Dr. Ambedkar, and has adopted Kamaraj's model of honest governance as a guiding principle. He stated, "We have accepted Dr. Ambedkar's ideals of equal opportunity and social justice. We have made Kamaraj's model of honest administration our guiding principle." In his speech, Vijay defended his party's political journey, emphasizing its performance in the upcoming 2026 assembly elections, asserting that it has emerged as a significant force even without forming alliances.
He discussed the challenges faced by his party, comparing his administration to those led by C.N. Annadurai and M.G. Ramachandran, and accused the previous government of corruption under the guise of 'party funds'—a claim that led to a walkout by the DMK in the assembly. He also addressed comments made about leftist parties amidst opposition.
Clarifying Party Identity
Vijay asserted that his party distinguishes clearly between political and ideological opponents. He argued that those who perceive it merely as an actor's party fail to understand its evolution. He explained that most parties are formed first and then seek public support, whereas they approached the people first before establishing their party. Those who do not grasp this often dismiss them as just an actor's party.
Referring to the 2026 assembly elections, Vijay mentioned that his party contested independently, securing 35 percent of the votes, translating to 1.72 crore votes. He stated, "In the 2026 elections, we fought alone without any alliances. Since the people understood us well, we garnered 35 percent of the votes. We received 1.72 crore votes and emerged as a significant independent political force. That is why we are in government now." He also spoke about the difficulties faced during the party's growth and criticized attempts to hold them accountable for incidents unrelated to them, questioning, "41 lives were lost in Karur, and we were blamed. Is this how politics should be conducted?"