What happened after the DMK walkout? Vijay’s final gesture has everyone talking

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay found himself at the center of a dramatic moment in the Assembly on Tuesday. As he addressed the House, members of the DMK staged a walkout, leaving in the middle of his speech. However, the move did little to disrupt Vijay's confidence or flow.

Answering Critics with Confidence

During his speech, Vijay responded to those who often dismiss Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as merely an "actor's party." Refuting the criticism, he said that some people claim he came straight from a film shooting set to become Chief Minister.

#WATCH | Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay seeks permission from the Speaker and performs a cinematic gesture as he concludes his speech in the State Assembly.(Video source: Tamil Nadu State Assembly) pic.twitter.com/Y7BlOXHkYI

— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2026

With a touch of humor, Vijay remarked, "In their own language, I would say that is just a 'reel'." The comment drew attention as he cleverly used a film-related reference to counter political criticism.

He also highlighted TVK's unique journey, explaining that the party connected with people before officially launching. According to Vijay, while many political parties are formed first and then reach out to voters, TVK followed the opposite path. He further pointed out that the party contested the 2026 elections independently, without forming any alliances.

The Gesture That Stole the Show

As he concluded his speech, Vijay sought Speaker JCD Pabhakar's permission and signed off with a dramatic hand gesture. The move was met with applause and cheers from Assembly members, with many comparing it to scenes from his blockbuster films.

However, the gesture was not entirely cinematic. It mirrored a similar gesture made earlier this year by former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin during discussions surrounding a possible DMK-Congress alliance. Though Stalin later said the action was spontaneous, it quickly became a popular political meme.

From Cinema to Power

Vijay also defended his party against criticism over the Karur stampede tragedy, where 41 people lost their lives, questioning why blame was directed at TVK.

Having launched TVK in 2024 and led it to victory in 2026, Vijay continues to blend political messaging with the charisma that made him one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars. His latest Assembly appearance proved that his ability to command attention remains as strong in politics as it was on the silver screen.

- PTC PUNJABI