In his first official outreach after being sworn in as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, actor-turned-politician C Joseph Vijay met his predecessor and DMK president M.K. Stalin at the latter’s residence in Chennai. The meeting also included Udhayanidhi Stalin, marking a significant political moment following Vijay’s sweeping electoral victory.

Stalin received the new Chief Minister at his Alwarpet home, where the two leaders exchanged greetings in a cordial atmosphere. Vijay, dressed formally in a black suit, greeted Stalin respectfully before the leaders shook hands and embraced. The interaction was described as a customary visit, symbolising political decorum despite recent electoral rivalry.

During the meeting, both leaders presented each other with silk shawls and bouquets as gestures of goodwill. Later, Stalin shared on social media that he had congratulated Vijay on assuming office and offered him advice as he stepped into his new role.

The meeting comes just ahead of the Assembly floor test scheduled for May 13, where Vijay’s TVK government must demonstrate its majority. The party currently holds 107 seats after Vijay vacated his Tiruchirappalli East constituency. Additional backing from Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), and Left party legislators strengthens the numbers in his favour. Notably, these supporting parties are also part of the broader DMK-led alliance.

Soon after taking charge, Vijay criticised the previous administration over Tamil Nadu’s reported ₹10 lakh crore debt and raised concerns about what he termed “multiple centres of authority” under the earlier government. He asserted that his leadership would ensure a single, clear command structure. Stalin, in response, defended his tenure and countered the remarks regarding the state’s financial position.

The exchange reflects both political rivalry and public civility as Tamil Nadu enters a new chapter under Vijay’s leadership.