Chief Minister Vijay on Friday said safeguarding Tamil Nadu from bribery and corruption is “as important as freedom itself”, and asserted that his government is working towards that goal.
Speaking at the Independence Day celebrations held at Fort St George in Chennai, Vijay hoisted the National Flag for the first time as Chief Minister and received a ceremonial guard of honour. The event was attended by actor Trisha, her mother Uma, and the Chief Minister’s parents Chandrasekhar and Shoba, among others.
In his address, Vijay greeted the people of Tamil Nadu and urged citizens to remember freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives and possessions. He said unity among people breaks barriers of caste, religion, language and race, and that such unity leads to “true freedom” and continued progress.
Highlighting governance priorities, he said the administration is working for a transparent and honest system based on social justice, women’s safety and a drug-free culture. He added that the government would oppose decisions that go against state rights or Tamil Nadu’s interests, while continuing welfare schemes that benefit people, including Amma Unavagam and an expanded breakfast scheme.
Vijay said modern technology is being used to computerise administration, temple lands are being surveyed and details uploaded online for public access, and a new WhatsApp number has been introduced to report bribery complaints. He also called on citizens to stay engaged with the government, saying people are the real rulers and collective participation is needed to defeat “conspiracies” against the administration.
