The government in Tamil Nadu is once again facing political criticism after 25 new government town buses in Salem were prepared in yellow and red colours. The colour combination has triggered controversy as it reportedly resembles the flag of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the political party led by actor-turned-politician Vijay.
Arrangements are reportedly being made to operate the 25 new buses from the Johnsonpet area in Salem. However, the use of colours resembling the TVK party flag on government buses has sparked discussion in political circles and on social media.
Opposition parties have raised objections to the use of colours associated with the ruling political party on public government property. The DMK has reportedly criticised the move, alleging that an attempt is being made to introduce a new political practice in Tamil Nadu that has not been seen before.
However, there is still no clarity on whose instructions led to the selection of the yellow and red colours for the buses. Questions are also being raised over whether the decision was taken by the government or whether the colours were selected by officials at the local level.
An official clarification from the Tamil Nadu Transport Department is awaited on the issue. With the colour scheme of government buses becoming a subject of political controversy, attention is now on how the government will respond and whether any decision will be taken regarding the colours of the buses.
