The Tamil Nadu unit of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has lodged a formal complaint with State Chief Electoral Officer against actor Vijay’s newly formed political outfit, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), over the use of elephants in its party flag. The BSP claims that the elephant symbol is integral to their identity, holding significant historical and emotional value.
The complaint, filed by a BSP representative, highlighted concerns that the TVK’s use of similar imagery could confuse voters, given the BSP’s longstanding association with the elephant symbol, as per a report on India Today. The BSP has argued that despite expressing their objections, no action has yet been taken by the authorities. They also accused actor Vijay of failing to practice "political civility".
Further, BSP urged Election Commission to intervene and issue orders to remove the elephants from the flag.
"Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is using two elephant symbols in their party flag. Our national party - Bahujan Samaj Party - is already using the symbol (elephant). Elephant symbol is reserved for the central national party," BSP Tamil Nadu president Anand told PTI.
Vijay Unveils TVK Flag
Last week, Vijay, who recently entered politics as the leader of Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam, unveiled the party's flag in a grand event in Chennai. The flag is characterised by vibrant yellow and red colors, featuring two elephants alongside the Vagai flower, a symbol of victory in Tamil culture dating back to the Sangam period. Traditionally, the Vagai flower was burned by warriors as a sign of triumph in battle.
While the symbolic meanings embedded in the TVK’s flag have not been fully disclosed, Vijay is expected to elaborate on the flag's significance at the party's first state conference. The BSP’s complaint underscores the sensitive nature of political symbols in the electoral landscape.