Will Vijay’s TVK be banned from using the elephant symbol? Verdict on July 3

Chennai: The Chennai First Civil Court is set to pronounce its verdict on 3 July in a case filed by the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) against the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), founded by actor-politician Vijay, over the use of the elephant symbol on the party’s flag.

BSP seeks ban on elephant symbol

Bahujan Samaj Party’s Tamil Nadu General Secretary, Elangovan R, had filed a petition seeking a ban on the use of the elephant symbol on the TVK flag, alleging it was derived from the BSP's official party flag.

Vijay launched the TVK in February last year, and a few months later, unveiled the party flag featuring two elephants alongside a Vaagai flower. The flag is coloured yellow and red.

In his plea, Elangovan claimed the elephant symbol was a key emblem of the BSP and should not be used or replicated by any other political organisation.

TVK responds to allegations

Following the BSP’s petition, TVK General Secretary N Anand submitted a reply before the court, arguing that the case had no merit and lacked factual integrity.

“This petition, which has been filed with many details hidden, is not suitable for investigation. It has no connection with the Bahujan Samaj Party flag or the TVK flag. The TVK flag has been designed keeping in mind the party’s policies, principles and the future plan for the development of Tamil Nadu,” the response stated.

TVK further contended that the design bore clear distinctions from the BSP’s symbol and that there was no intention to mislead voters.

“The flag has been created with uniqueness. It was not created to confuse the voters, therefore, this petition should be dismissed with a fine,” the party argued.

BSP asserts symbol misuse

During the hearing, the BSP reaffirmed its stance, maintaining that the elephant featured in the TVK flag was a direct appropriation of their party symbol.

“Will parties like DMK and AIADMK allow us to use symbols like the sun and hand in their party flags with modifications? No party can use our national symbol, the elephant, in any form,” BSP representatives stated.

Verdict expected July 3

The Civil Court has heard all arguments from both parties. The final order on the petition is scheduled to be delivered on 3 July.

(With agency inputs)