The long-standing family and political feud within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) came to an end on Thursday as party leader Anbumani Ramadoss met his father and party founder S. Ramadoss in an emotional reunion at the latter's residence in Salem. The meeting, which lasted over an hour, was marked by tears and embraces, signaling a resolution to the rift that had divided the party for nearly a year.
Background of the Feud
The discord between Anbumani and his father S. Ramadoss became public in mid-2025 when Anbumani was removed from the post of PMK's youth wing president. Sources within the party revealed that the disagreement stemmed from differences over electoral alliances and internal party restructuring. S. Ramadoss, who founded the PMK in 1989, had been increasingly critical of Anbumani's leadership style, leading to a public spat that saw the party split into two factions.
The feud escalated when Anbumani formed a separate faction, the PMK (Anbumani), and contested local body elections independently. The father-son duo had not spoken for over eight months, with intermediaries failing to bridge the gap.
The Emotional Reunion
On Thursday morning, Anbumani arrived at his father's home in Salem without prior announcement. According to eyewitnesses, S. Ramadoss was surprised but visibly moved as his son touched his feet in a traditional gesture of respect. The two then embraced, with both breaking down in tears. Party workers present at the residence reported that the meeting was cordial and that both leaders discussed party matters for over an hour.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Anbumani said, "I am happy to be back with my father and my party. We have resolved our differences and will work together for the welfare of the people." S. Ramadoss, in a brief statement, said, "Family is above everything. I welcome my son back with open arms."
Political Implications
The reunion is expected to have significant implications for Tamil Nadu politics. The PMK, which primarily represents the Vanniyar community, has been a key ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state. The feud had weakened the party's bargaining power ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. With the rift now healed, the PMK is likely to present a united front.
Political analysts believe that the reunion could strengthen the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu. "The PMK's internal unity is crucial for the NDA's prospects in the state. This reunion sends a strong message to other allies," said Dr. K. S. Ramesh, a political science professor at Madras University.
Party Workers Celebrate
PMK supporters celebrated the reunion by distributing sweets and bursting crackers outside S. Ramadoss's residence. Senior party leader and former MP R. Arumugam said, "This is a great day for the PMK. The party is now stronger than ever." The party has announced a joint public meeting in Villupuram next week to mark the reconciliation.
The reunion also comes as a relief to the Vanniyar community, which had been watching the feud with concern. Community leader M. Rajendran said, "We are happy that the father and son have come together. The PMK is the voice of our community, and unity is essential for our progress."
