In a significant move ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has allotted official election symbols to two prominent actor-turned-politicians’ parties. Actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) has been granted the ‘Whistle’ symbol, while Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) receives the ‘Battery Torch’.
Both parties, registered but unrecognized, are making their electoral debut in the state polls expected later this year. The ECI’s directive to Tamil Nadu’s Chief Electoral Officer emphasizes compliance with the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. This approval allows TVK and MNM to contest under these distinctive symbols, marking a new chapter in Tamil Nadu’s dynamic political landscape.
The symbols hold symbolic weight: the whistle for TVK evokes calls for change and alertness, perfectly aligning with Vijay’s mass appeal among youth. For MNM, the battery torch signifies enlightenment and guidance, resonating with Haasan’s intellectual image. Political analysts predict these symbols could boost voter recognition, leveraging the stars’ massive fan bases.
However, the ECI has laid down clear conditions. In constituencies where these parties do not field candidates, the symbols will be available as free symbols to others. Moreover, failure to meet the minimum performance threshold—winning at least 5% of total Assembly seats—could result in symbol forfeiture in future elections.
Tamil Nadu’s political arena is heating up. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami recently unveiled the party’s first set of poll promises, including the ‘Kula Vilakku’ scheme. This initiative promises Rs 2,000 monthly direct bank transfers to women heads of ration card families, aiming to woo female voters.
As traditional heavyweights like DMK and AIADMK gear up, the entry of TVK and MNM injects fresh excitement. Observers believe Vijay and Haasan’s star power could split votes, reshape alliances, and potentially alter the state’s power equations. The 2026 polls promise to be a blockbuster contest.