CM Vijay Renames Breakfast Scheme After K Kamaraj, Sparks Sharp DMK Pushback
What Happened
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay faced political criticism after renaming the state’s expanded breakfast programme as the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme, replacing the original Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme launched by the DMK in 2022. Verified reports show the scheme was expanded earlier on September 22, 2026, to include students from Classes 6 to 8, covering 15.3 lakh students across 15,454 schools. DMK leaders accused the TVK government of political rebranding, especially after police were seen checking schoolbags at the launch event, prompting a public row. Meanwhile, BJP‑aligned groups welcomed Vijay’s invocation of K. Kamaraj, viewing it as an opportunity for OBC consolidation. Multiple sources confirm that the rebranding has triggered a wider political debate over legacy, symbolism, and welfare credit in Tamil Nadu.
Key Takeaways
The renaming of the breakfast scheme has escalated into a multi‑party political contest over legacy and welfare ownership. While the programme’s expansion strengthens nutrition support for schoolchildren, the political messaging around Kamaraj’s name has intensified rivalry between TVK, DMK, and BJP supporters.