PMK Leadership Clash Intensifies As Arul Backs Founder S Ramadoss
MLA Arul backs Ramadoss, seeks Election Commission’s justice.
A dramatic power struggle within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has taken center stage in Tamil Nadu politics, pitting party founder Dr. S Ramadoss against his son, Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss. Amid this internal conflict, PMK MLA R Arul expressed confidence that the Election Commission of India (ECI) will address the party's grievances and deliver justice, signaling hope for a resolution to the ongoing leadership crisis.
The rift intensified when Anbumani Ramadoss was officially recognized by the ECI as PMK president until August 2026, a decision announced by party spokesperson K Balu on September 15. Balu emphasized that Anbumani’s expulsion by his father holds no legal weight, escalating tensions within the party. However, Arul, a staunch supporter of the senior Ramadoss, highlighted the overwhelming backing for the founder, noting that both the Administrative Committee and Executive Committee stand firmly behind him.
A significant show of strength for the Ramadoss camp occurred at a district secretaries’ meeting on September 23 in Thailapuram, near Villupuram. The gathering saw near-full attendance, with 107 of 108 district secretaries and 95 district presidents participating. Arul noted that the sole absentee cited health issues, underscoring the broad support for Ramadoss within the party’s ranks.
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Speaking to the media, Arul expressed optimism about the ECI’s role, stating, “As a pan-India body, the Election Commission will hear our concerns and deliver justice.” He refrained from elaborating on specific grievances but emphasized the party’s trust in the ECI’s impartiality.
The Thailapuram meeting, held near Tindivanam, was led by Dr. S Ramadoss and attended by key office-bearers, including general secretary Murali Shankar, joint general secretary, and chief spokesperson. Discussions focused on critical strategies for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Topics included strengthening the party’s organizational structure, finalizing Anbumani’s removal from leadership, exploring potential alliances, determining the number of constituencies PMK will contest, and planning grassroots initiatives like street-corner campaigns and district-level general body meetings. Membership forms for district, state, and union-level enrollment were also distributed to bolster the party’s base.
In a bold address to the gathering, Ramadoss declared his intent to lead the PMK into a winning alliance. “I will embark on a statewide tour to connect with the people. Whichever alliance PMK joins will form the government, and the chief minister will come from that alliance,” he asserted, signaling his determination to shape Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
Arul further revealed that Ramadoss will kick off his village outreach program starting in Pennagaram, with party administrators assigned election-related tasks until December. “Dr. Ramadoss is focused on building a victorious alliance that prioritizes the welfare of the country and its people,” Arul said, adding that this alliance would be formed “without hindrance from anyone,” a subtle jab at Anbumani’s faction.
The internal conflict has raised questions about PMK’s unity and electoral prospects. Political analysts suggest that the ECI’s ruling could significantly impact the party’s direction, especially as it gears up for a competitive election season. With both factions vying for control, the PMK’s next moves will be closely watched as Tamil Nadu’s political dynamics continue to evolve.
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