Chennai Mayor R Priya fights back amid criticism of the government’s DMK government, accusing the government of failing to protect women in Tamil Nadu.
In the news of Women’s Day, Vijay questioned the state government’s history on women’s safety. “Wish everyone Women’s Day. Are you happy? You can only feel happy if you feel safe. I can understand the feeling of happiness when you are not safe. Unfortunately, you and I chose the DMK government. But until now, we realized that they betrayed us. Everything will change. Don’t worry, in 2026, we will remove those who have failed to provide security for women,” he said.
“Change is the only constant thing. In 2026, let us know that governments that fail to protect women vote out of power,” the actor-politician said.
Priya responded quickly, urging Vijay to interact with the political reality before making such a wide range of statements. “He just entered and there is more political reality to see,” she said. The mayor defended the government’s move, noting that Chief Minister MK Stalin prioritized plans aimed at elevating women.
“For a woman, only education is with her only when everyone, including her relatives, abandons her. Our Chief Minister takes it very seriously.” She said it was unnecessary to refute Vijay’s criticism.
Vijay has previously taken a strong stance on women’s safety in Tamil Nadu, urging Governor RN Ravi to take steps to ensure its protection, especially after a sexual assault at the University of Chennai Ana.
Vijay presented a memorandum outlining his concerns when he met with the governor of Raj Bhavan in December 2024.
“In our memorandum, we seek measures to protect the law and order of Tamil Nadu, besides ensuring the safety of women in all places,” TVK Secretary General N Anand accompanied Vijay’s Secretary General at the meeting.
