KG Arunraj, a leader of the TVK party, took the oath as a minister in the new Tamil Nadu cabinet on May 10, 2026.
The formation of this government marks a significant political shift in the state, as C. Joseph Vijay leads a coalition aimed at implementing systemic reforms. The administration has pledged to prioritize clean governance, women's safety, and the creation of a drug-free state.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Sunday at venues including Nehru Stadium and the Tamil Nadu Secretariat in Chennai. During the proceedings, C. Joseph Vijay was sworn in as chief minister alongside nine ministers [1].
"This is a historic chapter for Tamil Nadu," Arunraj said.
Vijay addressed the public during the event, emphasizing a commitment to transparency. "We will not deceive people with false promises," Vijay said.
The transition of power drew reactions from previous leadership. MK Stalin offered his congratulations to the new administration and said, "Congratulations to the new government; we hope you fulfill poll promises."
Despite the celebrations, the new government faces an immediate legislative requirement. The chief minister must prove his majority on the floor of the Assembly on or before May 13, 2026 [2].
The TVK party secured its position through a majority won with coalition support. The new cabinet is expected to move quickly on its primary campaign pillars to establish legitimacy during its first days in office.
“"This is a historic chapter for Tamil Nadu."”
The ascent of the TVK-led government represents a disruption of the established political order in Tamil Nadu. By appointing a lean cabinet of nine ministers and focusing on social issues like drug abuse and women's safety, Vijay is attempting to brand his administration as a populist, reformist alternative to previous regimes. The upcoming majority test on May 13 will be the first critical hurdle in ensuring the stability of this new coalition.
