Actor and well-known transgender rights activist Living Smile Vidya has called out actor Vijay’s political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), for allegedly using a transphobic slur in its organisational structure. The controversy arose after TVK listed its 'Transgender Wing' as number 9 among its 28 ancillary wings. In Tamil Nadu, number 9 has long been used as a derogatory reference to the transgender community.
TVK, which is preparing for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, has announced multiple wings, including an Information Technology Wing, Advocate Wing, Media Wing, Propaganda and Speakers Wing, Training and Cadre Development Wing, Climate Research and Environment Wing, Historic Data Research and Fact-Check Wing, Students’ Wing, and Women’s Wing. Among these, the Transgender Wing was assigned number 9, sparking criticism from Vidya.
Taking offense, Vidya expressed her disappointment on X, stating, “For how many more centuries do we have to carry this ‘9’ stigma? It is a good thing that actor Vijay has formed a transgender wing. But what is the need to list it at number 9? Restrict these dark jokes to your films, Vijay!”
Questioning the intent behind the numbering, she added, “Is it some kind of sick joke? Irritating!! Dear intellects, step up and be supportive to us; your silence encourages this bullshit!!”
As of now, TVK has not issued a statement in response to the backlash.
In an unusual move, TVK also announced the formation of a Children’s Wing. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially since it contradicts a directive issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on February 5, 2024. The ECI had explicitly warned political parties against involving children in election campaigns and rallies.
“Political parties are explicitly directed not to engage children in any form of election campaign, including rallies, slogan shouting, distribution of posters or pamphlets, or any other election-related activity. Political leaders and candidates should not use children for campaign activities in any manner including holding a child in their arms, carrying a child in a vehicle or in rallies,” the ECI notification read.
