Chennai, Sept 15:
Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Tuesday paid tribute to former Chief Minister and DMK founder C N Annadurai on his 118th birth anniversary, recalling his contribution to Tamil Nadu’s social and political history.
In a statement, Vijay described Anna as a leader who created a new chapter in Tamil Nadu’s political history and raised his voice for the rights of the poor and common people. He said Anna’s vision and service to the people would continue to be remembered.
Vijay highlighted Anna’s oratorical skills and writing, saying he won the support of the people and assumed office as Chief Minister. He also recalled Anna’s contribution to naming the state Tamil Nadu, laying the foundation for greater state autonomy and providing legal recognition to self-respect marriages.
Vijay also recalled Anna’s slogans, including “Duty, Dignity and Discipline” and “Let us see God in the smile of the poor”. He called for a commitment to social justice, equality and fraternity and urged people to uphold the pride of the Tamil language.