Tamil Nadu bishops welcome new Catholic chief minister

CHENNAI, Tamil Nadu (Indian Catholic News) — Bishops in Tamil Nadu have congratulated newly elected Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, the state’s newly elected and first Catholic chief minister, expressing hope his government will promote social justice, educational advancement, youth development and equality for all.

In a message signed by Archbishop George Antonysamy of Madras and Mylapore on behalf of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council and the Tamil Nadu Latin Bishops’ Council, Church leaders welcomed the actor-turned-politician after he was sworn into office on May 10 as chief minister of India’s southernmost state.

Vijay, 51, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK, Tamil Nadu Victory Federation) party, secured a landmark victory that reshaped Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, ending nearly six decades of dominance by the state’s two major Dravidian parties — the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

“The Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council extends its heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to the Honourable C. Joseph Vijay on assuming office as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and to the new government under his leadership,” the bishops said in their statement.

The bishops expressed confidence that the new administration would pursue policies benefiting all residents of the state.

“We trust that you will work towards the noble goals of the integrated welfare of all the people of Tamil Nadu, social justice, educational advancement, youth development, and equality,” they said.

Early policy measures praised

The Church leaders also welcomed some of the government’s first actions after taking office.

“Within just a few days of assuming office, the new political culture you have initiated—such as closing liquor shops near places of worship and educational institutions, and reducing the number of liquor outlets—are commendable measures,” the statement said.

Tamil Nadu has a population of about 77 million people. Catholics account for roughly 12% of the population, while Christians overall make up nearly 30%, giving the community a significant presence in the state’s social and educational sectors.

The bishops said they hoped the chief minister would promote unity and constitutional values while resisting attempts to divide society.

“We hope you will suppress those who promote divisive politics, reject those who divide people in the name of religion, and foster religious harmony, human dignity, and the democratic values upheld by the Constitution of India,” they said.

Call for inclusive leadership

The statement also emphasized the need for governance that serves all communities.

“We believe you will lead inclusively, embracing all sections of society,” the bishops said.

Referring to Vijay as the state’s youngest chief minister, the bishops concluded by offering prayers for his leadership and success.

“As the youngest Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu … we once again extend our sincere congratulations,” they said, adding that they prayed “that God’s grace and blessings may always be with you.”

Full circular available: original Tamil and AI‑generated English translation.