PTC Web Desk:  Just weeks after the TVK-led government came to power in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is facing mounting criticism over the state’s law and order situation following two brutal crimes involving minors.

The opposition has strongly attacked the government after the murder of a 17-year-old boy near the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and the rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore district.

Opposition corners TVK govt

Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K  Annamalai accused the new government of failing to address serious law and order concerns.

In a post on social media, Annamalai alleged that criminals were operating freely in the state and claimed the TVK government was still in a “celebratory mood” after its election victory instead of focusing on public safety.

He also expressed concern over the safety of women and children in Tamil Nadu and urged the government to take immediate and strict action against crimes.

Udhayanidhi Stalin raises questions

Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin also criticised the government and questioned whether Tamil Nadu’s law and order situation was worsening.

He referred to multiple recent incidents, including the Sulur murder case, the Madurai killing and other violent crimes, while asking Chief Minister Vijay why the government was remaining silent despite its promises before the elections.

AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami too questioned the government’s seriousness in handling crimes against women and children.

Controversy over minister’s reaction

The controversy deepened after Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Keerthana declined to answer questions related to the Coimbatore rape and murder case during a media interaction.

Her reaction drew criticism from BJP leaders, who alleged that the minister appeared insensitive while responding to questions about the tragic incident.

Another video that surfaced online showed senior police officials smiling moments before a press briefing related to the case. The visuals triggered criticism from opposition leaders and social media users, who questioned the sensitivity shown by officials during discussions on crimes involving children.

Vijay government cites fast-track justice

Facing criticism, Chief Minister Vijay highlighted a recent fast-tracked Pocso case to defend his government’s approach towards crimes against women and children.

The case involved the rape and murder of a Class 12 student in Thoothukudi district earlier this year. A Pocso court recently awarded double death sentences to the accused after completing the trial within three months.

Vijay said the speedy verdict reflected the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and protecting women and children in the state.

First major test for Vijay govt

The recent incidents have become the first major political and administrative challenge for the TVK government after its impressive electoral debut.