Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary M A Baby on Sunday congratulated C Joseph Vijay on assuming office as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, expressing hope that the new administration would uphold the principles of secularism, federalism and social justice.
In a message posted on social media platform X, the CPI(M) leader extended his greetings to Vijay, whose party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, recently secured a major electoral victory in the state.
“Congratulations to Thiru C. Joseph Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, on assuming office as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” Baby wrote. “Best wishes to you and your government in upholding the principles of secularism, people-centric economic development, federalism, and social justice, and in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Tamil Nadu.”
The remarks are being seen as a notable political gesture from the CPI(M) leadership towards Vijay’s newly formed political outfit, which has rapidly emerged as a significant force in Tamil Nadu politics. Baby’s emphasis on secularism, welfare-oriented development and federal rights echoed themes historically associated with both Left and Dravidian political traditions in the state.
Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s most influential actors, formally entered electoral politics with the launch of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam and campaigned on promises of transparent governance, social welfare and youth empowerment. His transition from film superstar to chief minister marks one of the most dramatic political shifts in contemporary Tamil Nadu politics.
Political observers noted that congratulatory messages from national and regional leaders reflected the wider attention surrounding Vijay’s rise and the changing political dynamics in the state. Tamil Nadu’s political landscape has long been shaped by strong regional movements centred around linguistic identity, social justice, welfare policies and state autonomy, and analysts believe the new government will face pressure to balance economic growth with its welfare commitments.
The CPI(M), which has traditionally maintained a presence in Tamil Nadu through alliances with Dravidian parties, has consistently foregrounded issues such as secular governance, federal rights and pro-people economic policies in its engagement with regional political developments.