Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay ran the full six kilometres of an anti-drug awareness marathon on Marina Beach on World Drug Day, becoming one of the few sitting chief ministers in the state to complete such a public run alongside ordinary citizens.
Vijay joined thousands of students, athletes, youth groups and residents for the event organised by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT).
Before the run, the Chief Minister wrote the Tamil slogan “Sporta Edu, Drugs Vidu” (Take up sports, give up drugs) on a public awareness board and led participants in a pledge to stay away from drugs, counsel others against substance abuse, and support the government’s efforts to make Tamil Nadu drug-free.
Speaking to the gathering, Vijay said drug addiction destroys families and communities and stressed the need for both preventive measures — such as promoting education, sports and skill development — and strict enforcement of laws.
“Let us all stand in support of the various initiatives undertaken by the Government of Tamil Nadu to prevent drug-related crimes and pledge on this day to forge a drug-free, secure, and healthy Tamil Nadu,” he said.
Similar anti-drug runs and mini-marathons were organised across districts in the state. In Thoothukudi, Minister P. Madhanraj and District Collector Vishu Mahajan flagged off an event that drew large participation from students and the public.
The Chief Minister’s decision to complete the full distance, rather than a token appearance, drew appreciation across party lines. BJP leader and former Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan welcomed the initiative on social media, noting that the fight against drugs is beyond politics and calling for collective efforts towards a drug-free Tamil Nadu.
The event comes amid growing concern over drug abuse among youth in Tamil Nadu, with the state government stepping up awareness and enforcement drives in recent months.
