Election Commission Confirms Decision
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on January 22, 2026, officially gave the ‘whistle’ election symbol to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the political party led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections 2026.
As a result, TVK has cleared an important step ahead of its first-ever electoral contest.
How TVK Secured Its Election Symbol
Application Submitted Under ECI Rules
Earlier, on November 11, 2025, TVK submitted a formal request to the ECI under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.
During the process, the party:
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Selected seven symbols from the ECI’s approved list of free symbols
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Also proposed three self-created symbols
After careful review, the Commission approved the ‘whistle’ symbol, which will now represent TVK on ballot papers and EVMs.
MNM Also Receives Symbol
Battery Torch Allotted to Kamal Haasan’s Party
At the same time, the ECI allotted the ‘battery torch’ symbol to Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), the party led by actor-politician Kamal Haasan.
Therefore, both actor-led parties have now secured official symbols ahead of the crucial State election.
Impact on Tamil Nadu Politics
Actor-Led Parties Gain Visibility
With this decision, TVK and MNM move closer to full-scale election campaigning. Moreover, the TVK whistle symbol is expected to improve voter recognition, especially in rural and first-time voter segments.
Meanwhile, Vijay’s entry into electoral politics has added fresh momentum to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, which is likely to witness intense competition in 2026.
