CM Vijay — Day by Day

No public events or governance announcements today. Key political development: the September 9 TVK allies meeting is taking concrete shape. TVK ministers N. Anand, Aadhav Arjuna, R. Nirmal Kumar and A. Rajmohan met CPI(M) state secretary P. Shanmugam, CPI state secretary M. Veerapandian and MDMK general secretary Vaiko separately on Saturday to personally invite them. Congress president Manickam Tagore confirmed attendance at a press conference, but reiterated that “Rahul Gandhi will be the PM candidate for 2029” — a pointed signal that the “Vijay for PM” projection by some TVK leaders remains a live tension point. Minister Rajmohan had earlier said such remarks were made out of “affection” and were not an official announcement. The meeting — to be chaired by CM Vijay at 4 PM on September 9 — will be the second of the coalition partners (the first was at Kovalam on July 1). Key expected outcomes: formal naming of the alliance, a coordination committee, and a common minimum action programme. CPI and CPI(M) attended the first meeting but had stayed away; their participation on Sep 9 is unclear.

No public events or governance announcements reported today. Assembly session concluded on August 28. Key correction: TNPSC Group I Prelims postponed from September 6 to September 27 (notification dated July 16, 2026). Upcoming watch: Vijay’s detailed law & order reply in Assembly on Monday September 7; TVK allies meeting September 9; Cauvery SC hearing, Gold Ring scheme launch and Digital DL/RC rollout on September 15.

CM Vijay issued greetings on Krishna Jayanthi. Actor and racing driver Ajith Kumar publicly welcomed Vijay’s Motor Sports City announcement, describing it as a potentially important step for Indian motorsport. TVK allies meeting scheduled for September 9 — significant politically given reported differences with Congress over the “Vijay for PM” narrative. No major governance events today. The Assembly First Session concluded on August 28. September 4 is a regular working Friday for the Vijay government. Key watch items: TNPSC Group I Prelims on September 27 (postponed from Sep 6, notification July 16) — 46 vacancies, first major recruitment drive of the TVK government; September 7 (Monday) — Vijay has promised a detailed point-by-point reply in the Assembly to the opposition’s law-and-order criticisms; September 15 — Cauvery SC hearing (backlog dispute), Gold Ring scheme launch, and Digital DL/RC rollout.

CM Vijay announced four major infrastructure projects under Rule 110: (1) Tamil Nadu Olympic City in Chennai — developed by TNSDA with world-class arenas, High Performance Training Centre, Sports Science and Medicine centres, athlete accommodation, aimed at producing Olympic medallists; (2) Motor Sports City in Chennai capable of hosting F1, F2, F3, F4 events — and a talent pipeline for young Tamil Nadu racers; (3) ₹1,200 crore new integrated Assembly-Secretariat complex (20 lakh sq ft) to replace the fragmented Fort St George arrangement; (4) Tamil HC language resolution moved and adopted unanimously — 6th unanimous resolution of the 17th Assembly (Tamil as principal language of Madras HC, citing Classical Language status since 2004, 9 crore speakers, AI translation advances). Additional: ₹100 Cr minority revolving fund, ₹40 Cr Waqf Board HQ, ₹5 Cr/year Waqf administrative grant. Opposition clash on law & order — Vijay promised a detailed point-by-point reply on Monday September 7. Subsidised onion sales at ₹35/kg through ration shops also began.

CM Vijay is expected to announce plans to shift the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and Secretariat from the historic Fort St George campus to a new integrated complex. Government sources cited four locations under consideration: Pattinapakkam, Nandambakkam, Koyambedu and Highways Department premises at Guindy. The CMO is separately being shifted to the 10th floor of Namakkal Kavignar Maligai (within Fort St George) at a cost of ₹11 crore. Fort St George, built in 1644, is under the ASI — limiting expansion; daily footfall has risen from 7,000 to 9,000 since Vijay took office. No final location or project cost announced yet — being held from publication pending official confirmation. Separately, the HR&CE Department’s smartphone ban came into effect at 52 major temples across Tamil Nadu: devotees must deposit phones (with cameras) at entrance counters and pay ₹5 per phone; camera-free mobiles permitted inside.

CM Vijay flew from Chennai to Salem by special flight and drove to Mettur, where he opened the sluice gates of the Stanley Reservoir in the presence of Cabinet colleagues including Water Resources Minister N. Anand. He turned the button to open the gates, showered flowers and grains on the gushing waters, posed with farmers, and inspected a photo exhibition on the dam and River Cauvery. This was his first visit to Mettur as Chief Minister. Water will be released for 45 days subject to storage and inflow. The opening came 81 days after the traditional June 12 date, delayed by inadequate rainfall and Karnataka’s non-release of Cauvery water. Kuruvai cultivation was severely affected; farmers are now preparing for the samba season. The Cauvery SC matter was adjourned by the Supreme Court to September 15, directing both states to file updates on developments.

Day 113 was the most announcement-heavy day of the session. In the Assembly under Rule 110, Vijay announced: (1) ₹57,000+ Cr infrastructure package — ₹33,066 Cr Tamil Nadu Transmission Improvement Scheme (196 substations, 15,000 km transmission lines), ₹20,800 Cr 1,600 MW supercritical thermal plant at Thoothukudi (PPP), ₹1,762 Cr Chennai distribution upgrade, ₹175 Cr Semiconductor Park at Maduramangalam (Kancheepuram), ₹400 Cr FinTech Hub at Coimbatore, multimodal logistics hub at Trichy; (2) Second Aavin milk procurement price hike in 12 days — ₹41 to ₹44 per litre, cumulative ₹6 rise since Aug 19, incentive raised ₹3 to ₹5/litre, ₹720 Cr annual outlay for 3.16 lakh producers; (3) Cauvery SC hearing — Karnataka told the bench it released 11,547 cusecs, above CWMA’s 9,000-cusec direction; TN pressed for backlog clearance; matter listed further; (4) Vijay to travel to Mettur by special flight on September 1 to open the Stanley Reservoir sluice gates at 10 AM — 81 days after the traditional June 12 date.

The 21 Tamil Nadu pilgrims rescued from Nepal’s Bhote Koshi flash floods arrived at Chennai airport on Friday night on an Air India flight from New Delhi, completing their journey home. They were received by Ministers N. Anand and D. Sarathkumar. The group was mainly from Chidambaram and Mayiladuthurai. Minister K. A. Sengottaiyan said CM Vijay has been monitoring the situation every minute. The state government continues to trace remaining pilgrims; four ministers remain in Delhi coordinating with the Union government. Mettur Dam confirmed to open September 1 — Vijay will travel to Mettur to open the sluice gates of the Stanley Reservoir for Cauvery delta irrigation, ending a 76-day wait. Water released for 45 days, benefiting 16–17 lakh acres in 13 districts.

The First Session of the 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly concluded on August 28. Housing and Urban Development demands for grants debate saw announcements including 462 new apartments in Perambur (₹111.08 crore), 15,000 individual houses for EWS families, renovation of 41,664 old housing units, ₹355 crore for complex infrastructure and self-certification building approval expanded to 5,000 sq ft. CM Vijay congratulated chess grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa on becoming the first Indian to win the Grand Chess Tour title, defeating Fabiano Caruana 15-13 in the final at St Louis. Vijay filed his response in the Madras HC election petition (Tiruchy East) and separately sought to vacate the stay on by-elections in five constituencies. The 21 Tamil Nadu pilgrims rescued from Nepal were received in Delhi by EAM Jaishankar; Tamil Nadu ministers Aadhav Arjuna and Rajmohan were present. 36 pilgrims remain untraced.

CM Vijay chaired a high-level review meeting on the Nepal flood disaster (Bhote Koshi River, Rasuwa district). He directed IAS officer Ashish Kumar, Resident Commissioner of Tamil Nadu House in Delhi, to travel to Kathmandu with a team to coordinate with Nepalese authorities. Four ministers — Aadhav Arjuna, A. Rajmohan, R. Vinoth and K. Thennarasu — were ordered to rush to Delhi to coordinate with the Union Government. A control room was set up at Tamil Nadu House, Delhi. Total Tamil Nadu pilgrims in Nepal: 106 (54+3 from Puducherry on the main pilgrimage, plus 49 on a separate tour). MEA confirmed 21 rescued as of 1 PM on Aug 27, all from Tamil Nadu, heading to Kathmandu. An Assembly call-attention motion was also moved on the issue. CM Vijay and Minister Aadhav Arjuna also filed petitions in the Madras High Court seeking dismissal of election petitions. Fire and Rescue facilities inaugurated in Salem by video conference. Mining corporation, drone surveillance and integrated mineral-management platform announced.

Following Monday's Assembly announcement cancelling the Parandur airport project, the government clarified that the 1,700 acres already acquired will not be returned to landowners but instead assessed for alternative industrial uses acceptable to local communities. The Parandur Greenfield Airport Opposition Joint Movement met Vijay at the Secretariat to thank him for the cancellation, with delegation leaders sharing details of their 1,100-day protest including 16 panchayat resolutions and school boycotts. The ₹1 lakh crore investment milestone (₹1,02,514 crore across 104 MoUs, 1,21,788 jobs) — announced at the August 13 Investors Conclave — continued to receive national attention.

CM Vijay flagged off 250 new buses at the Secretariat — 130 low-floor AC electric buses for the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (first phase of a 750-bus, ₹1,337-crore programme) at ₹234.50 crore, plus 120 conventional buses for state transport corporations. Total procurement cost: ₹290.08 crore. MTC already operates 625 electric buses; the 130 new ones will run from Alandur (80) and Central Depot-II (50). Transport Minister A. Vijay Tamilan Parthiban attended. Vijay boarded one of the buses and spoke with the driver and conductors.

In one of the most significant Assembly days of his tenure, CM Vijay made three major announcements. He cancelled the ₹27,400-crore Parandur greenfield airport project, citing the displacement of more than 1,000 families and the loss of agricultural land, fulfilling a promise made at Vikravandi in October 2024. He announced the Annapoorani Super Six scheme — three free LPG cylinders a year for 1.30 crore eligible households (annual income ≤₹2.5 lakh) via DBT, from Pongal 2027, at ₹4,000 crore a year. And he announced the Vettri Payanam expansion — free bus travel extended from October 2 to include Express, LSS, Deluxe and mofussil buses, with no income ceiling, no journey limit, and transgender persons included, at ₹6,000 crore a year. The DMK staged a walkout over the Parandur decision.

CM Vijay served as vice-chairman of the 31st Southern Zonal Council at Mahabalipuram, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and felicitated him at the start of proceedings. He sought a legislative assurance that no state would lose parliamentary representation under the Delimitation Bill, 2026; asked that Tamil Nadu be permitted to fill state quota medical seats on Class 12 marks; urged strict implementation of Supreme Court and CWMA orders on Cauvery; maintained opposition to Mekedatu; sought extension of the Bengaluru Metro from Bommasandra to Hosur and faster progress on the Godavari-Cauvery river link; and called for greater flexibility for states on tax rates, saying the southern states sought not special privileges but a fair and equitable approach.

A major policy day in the Assembly, with four announcements under Rule 110. Annual coverage under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme was raised fivefold from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh, with a 400-bed multispeciality hospital announced for Perambur at ₹300 crore and specialised medical support for transgender persons at seven government medical college hospitals. The milk procurement price was raised by ₹3, benefiting 3.16 lakh producers at an additional ₹360 crore a year. Official vehicles and a monthly constituency allowance were announced for all 234 MLAs, drawing criticism over public expenditure. Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Chennai to chair the 31st Southern Zonal Council at Mahabalipuram on August 20.

The Assembly moved a call-attention motion demanding a high-level inquiry into the killing of three Tamil men — Anthony Sami, John Rose Peter and Kumar — by Karnataka Forest Department personnel in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary on 15 August. CM Vijay had condemned the incident as a massacre and called the department's explanation unacceptable. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered in Karnataka and an FIR registered against the officials involved.

The TVK government completed 100 days in office, marking the milestone with a video titled “A Government for 100 Days.” In the Assembly under Rule 110, CM Vijay announced a full waiver of cooperative crop loans up to ₹75,000, adding ₹953.06 crore for 1.38 lakh more farmers and taking the total waiver to ₹6,220 crore for 13.34 lakh farmers. In New Delhi, the Supreme Court directed Karnataka to ensure compliance with CWMA directions on Cauvery releases, sought a status report and posted the matter to August 24.

CM Vijay hoisted the national flag at the ramparts of Fort St George at 8.45 am, marking the 80th Independence Day and his first as Chief Minister. In his maiden Independence Day address he said freeing Tamil Nadu from bribery and corruption was equal to achieving freedom, announced the gold ring scheme for newborns from September 15 at an outlay of ₹755.83 crore and increased ex-servicemen benefits, and said his government would cooperate with the Centre on administrative matters while opposing anything against the state's rights. State honours were presented, including the Thagaisal Thamizhar Award to former TNCC president M. Krishnaswamy, the Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Award to diabetologist Dr V. Mohan, the Kalpana Chawla Award to Navsheen Banu of Coimbatore, and the Chief Minister's Police Medal to 15 personnel for anti-drug work.

The Supreme Court stayed the Madras High Court judgment that had quashed compassionate appointments for families of the 41 Karur stampede victims, asking why the government should not provide employment following such a tragedy — significant interim relief for the government. Separately, CM Vijay wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveying the Assembly's August 12 resolution and urging constitutional amendments to permanently fix the Lok Sabha at 543 seats, protect existing levels of state representation, and implement 33% women's reservation from the coming general election.

The Supreme Court deferred the Cauvery hearing listed for today to August 17, when the Tamil Nadu government's and the DMK's petitions are expected to be taken up together. The state filed an additional plea seeking a direction to Karnataka to release its full monthly allocation, putting the shortfall at Biligundlu between June and August 12 at 26.954 TMC.

The Supreme Court agreed to hear the Tamil Nadu government's Cauvery petition on August 13, with a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant noting the state's submission that it was not receiving its due share in a rain-deficient year. Tamil Nadu has sought implementation of the CWMA's July 30 decision and put the shortfall in its due share at 26.954 TMC.

The Assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to abolish NEET nationally and return medical admissions to Class 12 marks, with cross-party support, alongside a second resolution opposing the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026. Separately, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs per day to Tamil Nadu from August 12 for 15 days — more than triple its earlier order.

CM Vijay moved a special resolution in the Legislative Assembly mandating that Tamil Thai Vazhthu be sung first at government functions, educational institutions and state-run bodies. It passed unanimously by voice vote, backed across party lines by the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, VCK, CPI, BJP and IUML. Vijay said the TVK government would not compromise on Tamil Nadu's linguistic and cultural rights.

19 MPs from the TVK alliance passed a unanimous resolution at Kalaivanar Arangam declaring delimitation "unnecessary" and "an injustice" to Tamil Nadu, at a meeting most opposition MPs — including the DMK and AIADMK — boycotted. TN Minister C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar said the government would move a special Assembly resolution opposing delimitation.

CM Vijay defended his proposed Cauvery talks with Karnataka in the Assembly, saying he was ready to face humiliation for Tamil Nadu's rights, and rejected calls for an all-party meeting. He also convened a meeting of all Tamil Nadu MPs for August 8 to discuss the proposed Delimitation Bill, and wrote to PM Modi opposing NEET-based admissions for veterinary science courses.

Agriculture Minister R. Vinoth presented the TVK government's maiden Agriculture Budget for 2026-27, unveiling the Tamil Nadu Soil Conservation Mission, ₹17,000 crore in crop loans, a ₹134.83 crore Kuruvai Special Package, and a target of 125 lakh metric tonnes of food-grain production. CM Vijay praised both Budgets, saying they would strengthen farmers' welfare and support long-term economic growth.

Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson presented the TVK government's maiden Tamil Nadu Budget for 2026-27, allocating ₹44,527 crore for school education, launching the ₹2,000 crore Vetri Laptop Scheme, and setting a $1.5 trillion economy target by 2036. CM Vijay met with Wilson and senior officials at the Secretariat to finalise preparations, and later chaired a review meeting ahead of Thursday's Agriculture Budget.

CM Vijay chaired a meeting of all TVK MLAs at the party's Panaiyur headquarters, discussing strategy ahead of the government's first General Budget (August 5) and Agriculture Budget (August 6) as the Assembly reconvenes for its Budget session.

CM Vijay toured the Sriperumbudur-Oragadam industrial corridor, visiting Saint-Gobain's World Glass Complex, the SIPCOT project office, Daimler Buses India and the Renault-Nissan plant, reviewing investment and employment opportunities. Separately, on his directions, the Tamil Nadu government petitioned the Supreme Court seeking directions to Karnataka to release Tamil Nadu's due share of Cauvery water, citing actual inflows far below the CWMA-ordered 3,500 cusecs.

Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar chaired an all-party meeting in Bengaluru to chart the state's strategy on the Cauvery dispute, securing cross-party backing and urging pro-Kannada groups to withdraw a planned August 13 bandh. He confirmed CM Vijay's proposed Bengaluru visit remains postponed, to be rescheduled once the atmosphere is more cordial.

CM Vijay chaired a ceremonial parade at Rajarathinam Stadium, presenting President's, Union Home Minister's and Chief Minister's Police Medals to 630 police, fire and prison personnel, interacting with senior IPS officers and reviewing police modernisation and law-and-order preparedness. He also flagged off a new vehicle fleet for the Coastal Security Group. Separately, Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar asked CM Vijay to postpone his proposed August 3 Bengaluru visit amid tensions over the Cauvery water release order, as the two governments continued working through the developing situation.

The Tamil Nadu government filed a Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that quashed compassionate government jobs given to families of Karur stampede victims, days after CM Vijay personally handed the appointments to 31 families during his July 10 Karur visit. Separately, CM Vijay presided over the exchange of four MoUs bringing global insurer Chubb, wind turbine maker Nordex, EV component manufacturer MotiveLink and the University of Western Australia's first Tamil Nadu campus — together creating nearly 3,000 jobs.

CM Vijay travelled by Chennai Metro from Omandurar to Nandanam, buying his own ticket, before inspecting the Phase II Kathipara Junction viaduct and reviewing the Porur-Poonamallee driverless trial stretch. Separately, Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar invited CM Vijay to survey the Cauvery basin by helicopter ahead of talks then proposed for August 3. The government is also reviewing a proposal from School Education Minister Rajmohan to add weekly chicken biryani to the noon-meal scheme. Separately, officials indicated Tamil Nadu's local body elections are likely to be deferred to early 2027, after the State Finance Commission's tenure was extended to December 31, 2026.

Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson confirmed the government will table an audit report on alleged corruption during the previous DMK regime in the upcoming Budget session, naming a former minister in connection with party fund irregularities. CM Vijay announced a ₹30 lakh cash reward for weightlifter Raja Muthupandi, who won silver in the men's 65kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. In the evening, CM Vijay made a surprise field inspection of the Koyambedu tertiary sewage treatment plant, reviewing its operations with officials; his visit drew large crowds along the route despite heavy rain.

The Tamil Nadu government confirmed its first Budget under CM Vijay will be presented on August 5, 2026, by Finance Minister Marie Wilson at 10:00 AM, following weeks of departmental review meetings. Separately, it emerged that the Chief Minister's Office is set to move from Fort St. George to Namakkal Kavignar Maaligai, driven by a shortage of space, with transition targeted for late August.

CM Vijay pressed Tamil Nadu's position on the Cauvery water dispute, having written to Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar seeking a bilateral meeting over the shortfall in water releases this season and to reiterate opposition to the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir. Karnataka has proposed tentative talks on August 3 in Bengaluru, which Tamil Nadu has not yet formally confirmed. CM Vijay continued routine government work at the Secretariat.

Ahead of Jana Nayagan's worldwide theatrical release, CM Vijay watched his final film as an actor with his parents at the Tagore Film Centre in Adyar, Chennai, along with senior government officials including Chief Secretary Sai Kumar. The release makes him only the second Tamil Nadu Chief Minister after M.G. Ramachandran to have a film released while serving in office. Jana Nayagan released worldwide the same day amid large-scale fan celebrations.

CM Vijay chaired a high-level review meeting of the Planning and Development Department at the Secretariat, examining progress on key state development programmes. He reaffirmed the government's demand for NEET's complete abolition, proposing that education be moved to the State List or a "Special Concurrent List." He also issued a public statement condemning the detention of Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders during anti-NEET protests in Delhi as undemocratic, extending TVK's full support to the opposition's Parliament protest.

CM Vijay approved the appointment of V. Siva, TVK's Chennai North district secretary, as the new Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Housing Board. He also continued reviewing governance and infrastructure priorities highlighted in NITI Aayog's latest Investment Friendliness Index, which ranked Tamil Nadu first among large states on infrastructure. Separately, the government announced CM Vijay will personally lead Sivaji Ganesan's birth centenary celebrations in 2028, announced on the veteran actor's 25th death anniversary.

CM Vijay reviewed urban waste management initiatives and directed officials to expand biogas plants across Tamil Nadu after examining the success of the 100-tonne-per-day Chetpet biogas facility. He approved preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for new biogas plants in Vellore, Erode, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Tiruppur districts, aiming to strengthen solid waste management and renewable energy production.

CM Vijay congratulated artists and technicians from Tamil cinema for securing 10 honours at the 72nd National Film Awards, calling it a matter of pride for the state. He specifically praised Dhanush for Raayan's Best Tamil Feature Film win and a Special Mention for Captain Miller, the Amaran team (Best Director, Best Editing, Best Background Music), and the Maharaja team.

CM Vijay extended Tamil Nadu Day greetings, announcing that the government will officially celebrate both November 1 (Madras State formation) and July 18 (the renaming resolution passed by C. N. Annadurai) to honour the state's history and identity. Separately, Revenue Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan praised the government's performance at a public function in Erode, pointing to the five-year development plan and regular departmental reviews.

CM Vijay made a surprise inspection of the M.C. Rajah Adi Dravidar Hostel in Saidapet, hearing student complaints about food quality and facilities and directing officials to take immediate corrective action. He also appealed to Tamil Nadu residents to complete self-enumeration for the fully digital Census 2026, saying the data forms the foundation for all welfare schemes. Earlier in the day, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale called on CM Vijay at the Secretariat in a courtesy meeting, discussing Dalit community welfare. Separately, KVN Productions officially confirmed Jana Nayagan — CM Vijay's final film as a lead actor — will release worldwide on July 23, 2026, with a new poster unveiled.

CM Vijay chaired a Cabinet meeting to approve proposals for the 2026-27 Tamil Nadu Budget, expected to be presented in the first week of August. During the meeting, he issued a stern warning that any minister found involved in corruption or policy irregularities would be removed from the Cabinet, saying his government would have "no corruption and no reel gimmicks." Separately, actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar met CM Vijay to discuss women's welfare and social issues, sharing an appreciative message on social media afterward.

No major official government programme was reported for the day. Actor Sivakarthikeyan met CM Vijay ahead of the release of Jana Nayagan, sharing photos of the meeting on social media. Separately, the Kerala Government announced that CM Vijay has accepted an invitation to participate in "Operation Toofan," a major anti-drug awareness campaign, where he is expected to share the stage with actor Mohanlal.

CM Vijay made his first official visit to Perambur — the constituency he represents as MLA — since taking office. He inaugurated a new, digitally-equipped MLA Constituency Office at Sharma Nagar, Vyasarpadi, complete with a grievance management system and CCTV surveillance; launched a statewide ration card distribution programme, handing over the first batch of cards in person; launched the "Nalam TN" digital public health portal; and launched a mobile grievance app for residents. He also walked through several Perambur streets meeting residents, shopkeepers, women, senior citizens and party workers, and reviewed roughly ₹1,000 crore in local infrastructure projects, including an inspection of the newly developed Perambur bus depot.

The Supreme Court stayed a Madras High Court order that had imposed a blanket ban on cow and calf slaughter across Tamil Nadu, after the state government argued the ruling went beyond what had actually been sought and contradicted the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958. The bench said the High Court order's final direction "prima facie required correction" and issued notice for further hearing.

Playback legend S. Janaki, revered as the "Nightingale of South India," passed away in Mysuru at the age of 88 following a cardiac arrest, closing a six-decade career spanning roughly 48,000 songs across 20 languages. CM Vijay joined tributes from across politics and cinema — including PM Modi, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan — calling her death "an irreplaceable loss to the Indian music world."

CM Vijay made his first visit to Karur district since assuming office and his first since the September 2025 stampede — meeting victims' families, handing over government job appointment orders to 32 individuals from affected families cleared by the Madras High Court, and announcing that TVK will build a memorial in Karur to honour the 41 victims. He addressed an emotional public meeting at Atlas Kalaiyaranga Ground, dressed in black, and laid the foundation stone for a private non-leather footwear manufacturing unit worth ₹1,700 crore, expected to create around 13,500 jobs. Around 6,500 police personnel were deployed for the visit.

DMK filed a fresh Supreme Court petition seeking to restrain CM Vijay and named ministers from public comment on the Karur case, days after a similar plea was declined by the same Court. Preparations for the two-day Karur visit (July 10–11) continued regardless, with TVK functionaries inspecting the visit venue.

CM Vijay made an unannounced inspection of the Government Hospital for Women and Children, Egmore — reviewing patient care, wards, cleanliness and medicine availability, and interacting with doctors, nurses and patients before directing officials to improve healthcare services. Separately, he held courtesy meetings at the Secretariat with the Chairman and Directors of the Daily Thanthi Group, the Vice Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, and the Commander of the Eastern Region of the Indian Coast Guard.

The Supreme Court declined to entertain a DMK petition seeking restrictions on CM Vijay's public statements and visits related to the Karur stampede case, observing that it could not regulate the official functions of a democratically elected Chief Minister and remarking that courts should not be used as a political platform. The petitioner withdrew the plea following the Court's observations. CM Vijay's scheduled visit to Karur to meet victims' families and oversee relief measures remains on track.

CM Vijay inspected the Nemmeli Desalination Plant and the under-construction 400 MLD Perur Desalination Plant, directing officials to expedite the Perur project and ensure proper maintenance at Nemmeli — set to strengthen Chennai's long-term drinking water supply for over two million residents. Separately, he chaired a high-level review of higher education, directing officials to fast-track Vice-Chancellor appointments to 15 state universities and address faculty shortages, governance and quality across Tamil Nadu's universities.

No verified major public programme by the Chief Minister was reported.

CM Vijay visited the TVK party headquarters in Panaiyur, Chennai — receiving a warm welcome from party leaders and cadres who greeted him with celebrations and slogans. He held discussions with senior functionaries and district-level office-bearers on strengthening party organisation, accelerating the membership drive across all 38 districts, and reviewing future political programmes and activities.

In one of the largest single-day defections from AIADMK in recent months, former ministers Dr. C. Vijayabaskar, M. R. Vijayabhaskar, M. S. M. Anandan and S. Valarmathi formally joined TVK at a grand induction ceremony in Mamallapuram. Former MLAs, district office-bearers and thousands of grassroots cadres also joined. Departmental review meetings also continued with officials and ministers to monitor governance, infrastructure, welfare and budget progress.

CM Vijay launched a comprehensive month-long department-wise performance review of all Tamil Nadu government departments to assess delivery and accelerate implementation. Separately, the TVK government announced the reconstituted School Curriculum Design Committee — with former ISRO scientist and Chandrayaan Project Director Dr. M. Annadurai appointed as Chairman, marking a landmark step in CM Vijay's education reform agenda.

CM Vijay held a high-level meeting with leaders of allied parties at a star hotel in Chennai — the first formal step towards cementing a TVK-led political front. Leaders from Indian National Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, Indian Union Muslim League and Marumalarchi DMK participated. CPI and CPI(M) leaders did not attend but met the Chief Minister separately at the Secretariat the same day, reiterating their continued outside support. Simultaneously, CM Vijay continued government review meetings with ministers and senior officials on development priorities and welfare scheme implementation.

CM Vijay concludes the 2-day Collectors Conference with a strong directive: officials must punish offenders regardless of power or influence. Orders coordinated crackdown on illegal sand mining in Cauvery and Vaigai river basins. Mandates migrant worker registration for protection. Presents awards to top-performing Collectors, police and Forest officials.

CM Vijay chairs Tamil Nadu's first Collectors Conference — all 38 District Collectors, senior IAS and IPS officers called to Chennai for a two-day governance review (June 29–30). Agenda covers 12 key areas: drug control, law and order, women's safety, SC/ST welfare, revenue, agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, social welfare and governance delivery — ahead of the Revised 2026–27 Budget.

CM Vijay personally inaugurated Tamil Nadu's annual Pulse Polio Immunisation Campaign at Adi Dravidar Welfare Higher Secondary School, Palavakkam, Chennai — personally administering oral polio drops to children under 5. Target: 52.91 lakh children across all 38 districts through 43,051 vaccination booths at hospitals, anganwadis, bus stands, railway stations and airports. Mobile teams deployed to reach remote villages.

Tamil cinema's "King of Screenplay" K. Bhagyaraj died of cardiac arrest at Apollo Hospital, Chennai. CM Vijay announced full State Honours and described his death as "an irreplaceable loss to Tamil cinema." Two Tamil cinema legends — Bharathiraja and Bhagyaraj — lost within 17 days.

CM Vijay participated in the Start Run Stop Drugs marathon from Anna Memorial — International Anti-Drug Day. 10,000+ participants ran across all 38 districts. 300 new buses flagged off (₹127.21 crore) — 164 diesel + 136 CNG/BS-VI green buses. Minister CTR Nirmalkumar praised CM for 30-minute power sector approval. Speaker JCD Prabhakar officially ruled CM Vijay’s Assembly gesture was not a protocol breach.

CM Vijay walked off stage to personally hand a pregnant beneficiary her appointment order — unscripted moment went viral. 401 appointment orders issued across departments. KfW electric bus tender cancelled. By-election EVM verification in 5 constituencies. Rajinikanth confirmed personal birthday call to CM Vijay. SC admitted TN medical seats plea. Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu praised TVK governance.

CM Vijay issued the Government Order for Thaimaaman Thanga Mothira Thittam. Every child born in a Tamil Nadu government hospital will receive a 1 gram gold ring. ₹755.83 crore earmarked annually. Eligibility backdated to June 22, 2026 (CM’s birthday). Formal launch September 15 — Perarignar Anna’s birth anniversary.

CM Vijay delivered his first-ever speech in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly — a reply to the Motion of Thanks. The speech was widely praised for clarity, policy depth and emotional connect. First Regular Session concluded after 6 sittings (June 18, 19, 22, 23). NEET scrapping resolution passed unanimously.

On his 52nd birthday — his first as Chief Minister — CM Vijay attended the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, where members across party lines extended birthday greetings to him in the House. He also inaugurated his MLA constituency office in Perambur and held his monthly public grievance day, receiving ministers, MLAs, alliance leaders, party functionaries and supporters who called on him to convey their wishes. Free zoo entry for the public, 52,000 saplings planted across Tamil Nadu, and wishes poured in from political leaders, celebrities and the public at large. Rajinikanth called personally to wish CM Vijay.

CM Vijay responded to the controversy surrounding the NEET-UG retest, renewing Tamil Nadu's long-standing demand for exemption from the exam and admission to medical courses based on Class XII marks.

CM Vijay continued internal review meetings with senior officials at the Secretariat, with preparations underway for the MLA office inauguration and monthly grievance day scheduled for his birthday on June 22. No major public function was officially reported.

All 234 MLAs unanimously passed a resolution opposing Karnataka's Mekedatu dam project on the Cauvery river. CM Vijay moved the resolution in the Assembly, marking a continuing sitting of the First Regular Session. Historic display of Tamil Nadu unity on water rights. The Assembly also continued its debate on the Governor's Address and government policies.

CM Vijay attended the opening day of the First Session of the 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, where Governor Arlekar delivered the Governor's Address outlining the government's agenda. CM Vijay also extended support to the proposed Hyundai shipyard project, signalling intent to attract large-scale industrial investment to Tamil Nadu's coastal economy, and directed the Transport Department to procure only air-conditioned electric buses for future fleet expansion, along with plans for dedicated Bus Rapid Transit corridors.

CM Vijay attended the second day of the MLA Orientation Programme at Kalaivanar Arangam, where Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar and senior officials conducted sessions on legislative committees, debates and Assembly procedures. Separately, he reviewed Chennai's long-term urban development plan, directing officials to prepare a world-class city development roadmap covering transport, drainage, mobility and civic infrastructure.

TVK government released the White Paper on Tamil Nadu's state finances, exposing ₹13.18 lakh crore total debt inherited from the previous DMK government — revenue deficit of ₹78,324 crore and per capita debt burden of ₹1.3 lakh. Both Finance and Electricity White Papers were released. Separately, CM Vijay has expanded the crop loan waiver three times; from 17 August cooperative loans up to ₹75,000 are fully waived, covering 13.34 lakh farmers at ₹6,220 crore, and expanded the Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme to cover Classes 6–8 from September. He also inaugurated the two-day Orientation Programme for newly elected MLAs at Kalaivanar Arangam by lighting the traditional kuthuvilakku.

CM Vijay held preparatory meetings with senior officials for the upcoming MLA orientation programme and the first Assembly session, alongside continued administrative reviews on government priorities. The Assembly session was scheduled to begin on June 18.

No major public function or district visit by the Chief Minister was officially reported. Routine government work continued.

CM Vijay reviewed files and held meetings with senior officials at the Secretariat following the NITI Aayog Delhi visit. No major public programme was officially reported.

CM Vijay continued official meetings in Delhi with Union leaders and officials on Centre–State cooperation and development projects, pressing further on NEET exemption and the case for Thirukkural's recognition as national literature, before returning to Chennai.

First national policy address at the 11th NITI Aayog Governing Council in New Delhi, chaired by PM Modi. Raised 7 key demands: NEET exemption, second AIIMS at Coimbatore, ₹3,284 Cr education funds, Poverty-Free TN Mission, Youth Skill Mission, Thirukkural as national literature, and cooperative federalism dues — covering Tamil Nadu's financial requirements, state rights, infrastructure and welfare priorities.

CM Vijay left for New Delhi on his second official visit as Chief Minister. He met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, and later met Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi at 10 Janpath, ahead of the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting. Separately, he paid a condolence visit following the passing of veteran Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja.

CM Vijay launched the Singappen Special Force (SSF) at Rajarathinam Stadium, Egmore. The government sanctioned ₹354.67 crore and created 2,545 posts, launching the first phase of the women-focused police force under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister — delivering on the Day 1 announcement.

CM Vijay continued administrative review meetings ahead of the launch of new government initiatives, including preparations for the Singappen Special Force. No major public event was reported.

No verified major public programme by the Chief Minister was reported.

Follow-up meetings with ministers and senior officials on Cabinet decisions and implementation of the Vetri Tamizhagam Vision Document. No major public function was reported.

CM Vijay chaired the first Cabinet meeting of the new government at the Secretariat. The Cabinet reviewed the Vetri Tamizhagam Vision Document and unveiled a comprehensive governance framework: 10 pillars, 54 sub-pillars, 436 projects and schemes covering every government department.

CM Vijay held preparatory meetings with ministers and senior officials ahead of the government's first Cabinet meeting.

Internal government meetings and file reviews continued. No major public event was officially reported.

CM Vijay returned to Chennai from Tiruchirappalli and continued official work at the Secretariat. No major public programme was widely reported.

CM Vijay's first official district visit after assuming office, to Tiruchirappalli. He arrived by chartered flight, held a roadshow from the airport, and addressed a Thanksgiving Meeting at St. Joseph's College Grounds — thanking the people of Tiruchirappalli East and Tamil Nadu, outlining governance priorities, and announcing that the Singappen Special Force would be launched the following week.

CM Vijay personally visited Ajith Kumar's residence in Chennai to offer condolences to the bereaved family after the passing of his mother, Mohini Mani, the previous day — the visit received wide public attention. Separately, the TVK government released the Magalir Urimai Thittam ₹1,000 monthly instalment for May 2026, with 10 lakh women beneficiaries receiving the amount directly in their bank accounts — the first disbursement under the TVK government since taking office.

CM Vijay expressed condolences following the demise of actor Ajith Kumar's mother, Mohini Mani. Political leaders across Tamil Nadu also paid tribute. CM Vijay shared a heartfelt condolence message on X, ahead of his personal visit to the family the following day.

CM Vijay returned to Chennai and reviewed files with senior officials. Follow-up meetings were held on issues discussed during the Delhi visit.

CM Vijay continued official meetings in New Delhi with Union leaders and officials regarding Centre–State cooperation and development projects, before returning to Chennai.

CM Vijay began his first official visit to New Delhi as Chief Minister. He met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and submitted memoranda on key issues including the Mekedatu dam project, the Tamil Thai Vazhthu issue, central assistance, and other state development matters.

CM Vijay continued departmental review meetings and preparation for his first official visit to New Delhi. No major public function was officially reported.

CM Vijay reviewed the reopening of schools in view of the prevailing heatwave. The School Education Department sought the Chief Minister's approval after obtaining weather inputs from the IMD before deciding on reopening dates.

No verified major public meeting, district visit, or government function by the Chief Minister could be confirmed from publicly available records. Routine Secretariat work continued.

CM Vijay continued discussions on fiscal reforms, revenue position and budget planning with senior officials, building on the previous day's White Paper directive.

CM Vijay chaired a high-level review of the state's financial position with the Finance Department, directing officials to prepare a White Paper on Tamil Nadu's finances — the review that would culminate in the June 16 release exposing ₹13.18 lakh crore in inherited debt.

Phase 2 cabinet expansion at Raj Bhavan — 23 new ministers sworn in. IUML and VCK joined the cabinet for the first time in Tamil Nadu history. Total cabinet: 35 ministers including CM. The newly expanded Council of Ministers also met Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at Lok Bhavan for an official group interaction and photo session following the formation of the new ministry.

Administrative meetings on governance priorities and implementation of election commitments continued. No major public programme could be independently verified.

CM Vijay continued departmental review meetings with ministers and senior officials following the formation of the government. No major public event was officially reported.

Preparatory meetings for upcoming administrative and financial reviews continued. No verified public event or district visit could be confirmed from public sources.

Routine government work, file reviews, and departmental consultations continued. No verified public meeting, district visit, or function was reported.

CM Vijay held a meeting with representatives of the Tamil film industry. Discussions covered easing regulations for theatres, subsidies for low-budget films, entertainment tax issues, and operational reforms. Following the meeting, the government approved five shows per day for new film releases and removed the requirement for special permission for first-week extra shows.

CM Vijay continued review meetings with senior officials and ministers regarding implementation of the government's first 100-day agenda, alongside ongoing transition meetings with senior IAS officers. No major public function or district visit was officially reported.

Cabinet departments began functioning under the newly allotted portfolios. Ministers formally assumed charge of their departments, and coordination meetings commenced.

TVK government confirmed with 144 votes in favour, 22 against, 5 abstentions — a 28-seat majority over the 116-seat threshold, cementing CM Vijay's position with a strong legislative majority. The same day, official portfolio allocation for the Council of Ministers was notified: CM Vijay retained key portfolios including Public, General Administration, Home, Police, Municipal Administration, Urban Development, Women Welfare, Youth Welfare and Water Supply. He also continued outreach by meeting alliance leaders — including Congress, IUML, VCK and former AIADMK leader C. Ve. Shanmugam — emphasising cooperation and political civility, and reiterated Tamil Nadu's demand for abolition of NEET, advocating admission to medical courses based on Class XII marks.

CM Vijay attended the first sitting of the 17th Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. J.C.D. Prabhakar (Villivakkam MLA, TVK) was elected as the 15th Speaker and M. Ravisankar as Deputy Speaker of the Assembly; CM Vijay congratulated both after they assumed office. The same day, a Government Order was issued to close 717 TASMAC outlets within 500m of religious sites, schools and bus stands.

CM Vijay began regular functioning at the Secretariat with departmental briefings, review of urgent files, and meetings with senior officials. He also held coordination discussions with Cabinet colleagues on immediate implementation of election promises and departmental responsibilities. No major public function was officially announced.

C. Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the 13th Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu at JN Indoor Stadium, Chennai, at 10:10 AM IST. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath to CM Vijay and the nine-member Council of Ministers. He resigned from the Tiruchirappalli East Assembly constituency after winning from two constituencies, retaining Perambur as his Assembly seat. He took charge at the Secretariat and signed his first official files in the presence of senior IAS officers, and held his first review meeting with the Chief Secretary and senior officials on immediate governance priorities. Within hours: 200 units free electricity, Singapenn Athiradi Padai women’s safety force, and TASMAC closures near religious sites were all ordered.