Chennai: In a significant policy decision move, actor-turned politician Vijay who is the Chief Minister of Tamilnadu, on his third day of taking the office ordered removal of around 717 Tasmac – government undertaking liquor retail shops situated in close proximity – within 500 metres radius from places of worship, educational institutions and bus stations.
There are a total of 4765 Tasmac liquor retail shops in the State and CM Joseph Vijay has ordered the removal of 717 liquor shops within two weeks time. This move has been hailed by almost everyone in the State.
When Vijay took oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the atmosphere across the state was unlike any ordinary political transition. Streets were filled with party flags, social media overflowed with celebrations, and expectations soared among young voters who had rallied behind his promise of “transparent governance and people-first politics.”
The first three days of Vijay’s government became a defining test – not just of political capability, but of whether a film icon could transform cinematic charisma into administrative leadership.
Vijay’s swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhavan drew enormous crowds and national attention. In his first address as Chief Minister, he avoided dramatic rhetoric and instead focused on accountability, youth employment, corruption control and public welfare.
Within hours of assuming office, the new government announced three immediate decisions: 200 units of free electricity; a task force for safety of women, and special teams across the State to curb the drug menace.
It did not stop with it – a statewide audit of pending welfare schemes, and a special anti-corruption helpline monitored directly by the Chief Minister’s Office, formation of a Youth Development Council consisting of educators, entrepreneurs, and social workers.
The tone of the administration was noticeably energetic. Senior bureaucrats were instructed to submit district-level reports within 48 hours, signaling that the new government intended to move quickly rather than spend weeks settling into power.
Political observers noted that Vijay’s body language during meetings reflected a blend of caution and determination. Unlike his cinematic roles, he appeared measured and disciplined, emphasizing teamwork over personality cult politics.
Observers say Vijay’s focus has been on Education and Employment in the State to start with. The government has shifted its attention toward two issues that had dominated Vijay’s campaign speeches: Education and Jobs.
Chief Minister Vijay convened a high-level meeting with officials from the education, industries, and IT departments. The administration announced plans for expanding government school digital infrastructure; launching skill-development centers in tier-two cities; creating a “First Job Tamil Nadu” initiative aimed at fresh graduates.
The announcement was welcomed by students and young professionals, especially in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli, where unemployment concerns had become increasingly prominent.
Vijay also made an unexpected visit to a government hospital in Chennai without prior publicity. Images of him speaking directly with patients and nurses quickly circulated online, reinforcing his carefully cultivated image as an accessible leader.
However, critics began questioning whether the government’s announcements were financially practical. Opposition leaders argued that enthusiasm alone could not solve structural economic challenges. Economists urged the administration to present a clear fiscal roadmap before making ambitious commitments.
The government faced its first significant challenge when transport workers’ unions raised demands regarding wages and pensions. Farmer associations also requested immediate meetings on water management and crop support prices.
Vijay responded by holding marathon consultations with department secretaries and union representatives. Instead of making instant promises, he adopted a more cautious tone, stating that “sustainable solutions matter more than temporary applause.”
This marked an important shift in public perception. Supporters who expected dramatic overnight change began to recognize the complexity of governance. At the same time, many observers appreciated the government’s willingness to engage directly with stakeholders instead of avoiding difficult conversations.
The administration also announced plans to livestream certain government briefings to improve transparency — a move that appealed strongly to younger citizens accustomed to digital accessibility.
