Chennai, India – The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recognised the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as a State party in Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry after it satisfied the prescribed criteria. Previously a registered but unrecognised party, the TVK is now entitled to have its symbol, the ‘Whistle,’ reserved, along with certain other advantages. The recognition comes after the party’s strong performance in the 2026 Assembly elections, where it contested 233 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and won 108 seats with a vote share of 34.92%. In Puducherry, the party won two of the 28 seats it contested, with a vote share of 16.85%.
Expressing happiness over the recognition, TVK president and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay said the party was started in 2024 to repay the debt of gratitude to the people of Tamil Nadu and Tamil people across the world who had shown immense love and support to him. Within 27 months of entering politics, the TVK secured nearly 35% of the votes in the 2026 Assembly election, becoming the single-largest party in the State. Vijay thanked the people for trusting the TVK and bringing about what he described as a “silent democratic revolution” through the ‘Whistle’ symbol. He also thanked those who worked hard for strengthening the party.
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The ECI’s recognition marks a significant milestone for the TVK, which was launched by the actor-turned-politician in 2024. The party’s rapid rise in Tamil Nadu politics has been attributed to Vijay’s popularity and his grassroots outreach. With the ‘Whistle’ symbol now reserved, the TVK is poised to consolidate its political presence ahead of future elections. The recognition also reflects the ECI’s acknowledgment of the party’s electoral performance and its growing influence in the region.
