Panruti Ramachandran Launches New Party MGR ADMK But Rules Out Contesting Elections

Veteran Tamil Nadu Politician Panruti S Ramachandran (88) on Thursday officially launched his new political party, the MGR Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MGR ADMK), signaling a fresh chapter in his six-decade-long career. Despite the launch, Ramachandran clarified that the party will not contest upcoming elections, allowing office-bearers who wish to stand for election to do so as independents or under aligned parties.

Speaking to reporters, Ramachandran maintained a cautious stance regarding electoral alliances, emphasizing that the current Assembly election is essentially a contest between the DMK and the TVK. While he avoided explicitly endorsing TVK president Vijay, he stated he would support movements aligned with the principles and objectives of his party.

Reflecting on his past association with former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS), Ramachandran said the chapter had concluded. He highlighted that politics should prioritize public welfare over individual loyalty, and reiterated that the decisions of past leaders should not dictate his political path. “Politics is not about an individual; what happens to the people and the State is of paramount importance,” he remarked.

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Ramachandran explained the motivation behind forming his own party, noting that modern political parties have become more like enterprises than platforms for public service. He stressed that the MGR ADMK aims to focus on clear ideological principles rather than contesting elections for power or position, reflecting his vision for principled politics.

The new party is set to hold its formal public launch on February 23 in Kancheepuram, where it will announce detailed policies, ideologies, and strategic plans. Ramachandran emphasized that the party would prioritize long-term social and political objectives rather than short-term electoral gains, underlining a focus on governance and public service.

Panruti S Ramachandran’s political journey spans nearly 60 years, beginning with the DMK in 1967. Over decades, he has held key ministerial roles in Transport, Public Works, Electricity, and Industries, while affiliating with several Dravidian and regional parties including the AIADMK, PMK, and DMDK. His extensive experience positions him as a veteran statesman capable of shaping political discourse without directly contesting elections.

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