Newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President C. Joseph Vijay drew an outpouring of congratulations from citizens and celebrities on 10 May, even as well-wishers made clear that the debutant party's ambitious promises would face intense public scrutiny. The mood at and around the swearing-in ceremony in Chennai was one of cautious optimism — celebratory, but with accountability firmly on the agenda.

Public Reaction: Hope Tempered With Vigilance

A local resident who attended the ceremony captured the prevailing sentiment bluntly. "Everyone's going to be watching you (Vijay) like a hawk, because there are so many promises that you've come to deliver," he said, extending best wishes to the Chief Minister and the new ministerial team. The same resident flagged pressing challenges awaiting the administration — the state's heavy debt burden, women's safety concerns, the drug menace, and a shortage of job opportunities.

"I am going to be raising questions every time they (TVK) are unable to deliver so that the new government can be kept in check," he added, signalling that public accountability would not wait. The resident also praised TVK MLA S. Keerthana for taking oath as a Minister, while expressing hope for "sufficient women representation in the expanded Cabinet, as well as representation from marginalised communities." He noted that Chief Minister Vijay had already delivered on the first three promises made during the campaign.

Actress Sanam Shetty: 'This Is Not Beginner's Luck'

Actress and model Sanam Shetty offered a more analytical take, pointing out that TVK had emerged as the largest party "without any alliance" — an achievement she described as a "step by step transition" rather than a product of star power alone. "Vijay is the only actor who has won and been elected as CM in his very first attempt. This is not just beginner's luck as many people say. His services for Tamil Nadu people started long back though it didn't come to limelight then," she said.

Shetty was careful to note that her support has not been unconditional. She said she had monitored every step and every promise made by the party, adding that as a new party, TVK carries both a "clean slate and a lot of potential." She emphasised that "it is the intention that matters in serving the public."

Citizens at the Venue Express Confidence

A local woman who attended the swearing-in ceremony described Chief Minister Vijay as a "very good person" who will do "good work," and praised his ministerial selections. "He has picked worthy people as Ministers," she said, expressing confidence that no misconduct would be tolerated under his watch. In an emotional note, she added: "We even thank his parents for raising such a boy."

Film Industry Congratulations

Actress Sangeetha also extended her congratulations to the new Chief Minister, telling reporters: "Should be a good time (for Tamil Nadu)." The wider film fraternity's warm reception underscores Vijay's unique position as a crossover figure — a mass entertainer who has now stepped into the highest executive office in the state. Notably, Vijay is reportedly the first Tamil actor to be elected Chief Minister in his very first electoral attempt.

What Lies Ahead

The new TVK government enters office carrying a heavy mandate and equally heavy expectations. With the state's fiscal position, social challenges, and an energised public all demanding results, Chief Minister Vijay's administration faces an early test of whether campaign pledges can translate into governance. The Cabinet expansion — including its composition on gender and community representation — will be a closely watched first signal of intent.