PMK Founder Ramadoss Takes Legal Action Against Son Anbumani Over Party Symbol 'Mango'
In a dramatic turn of events, Dr S Ramadoss, the founder of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), has initiated legal proceedings in a city civil court in Chennai to restrain his son, Dr Anbumani Ramadoss, and his faction from utilizing the party's name, flag, and the iconic election symbol 'Mango' for the forthcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. This move underscores a deepening rift within the party, with significant implications for its electoral prospects.
Court Directs Responses in PMK Symbol Dispute
The matter was brought before XII Assistant Judge M Dharmaprabu on Wednesday, where it was admitted for hearing. The court has directed Dr Anbumani to file his response to the suit. Additionally, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has been instructed to submit its response by March 9, highlighting the urgency of the issue as election preparations intensify.
Madras High Court Dismisses Earlier Petitions
This civil suit follows the dismissal of two petitions by the first bench of the Madras High Court on February 20. Dr Ramadoss had sought directions for the ECI to freeze the 'Mango' symbol due to an internal party split and disputes over the presidency. He also requested the court to declare him as the party president, recognize his team of office-bearers, and allocate the 'Mango' symbol to his faction for the upcoming legislative assembly elections.
However, the high court refused these pleas, emphasizing that such disputes between father and son must be resolved exclusively in a civil court setting, thereby paving the way for the current legal action.
Background of the PMK Leadership Conflict
According to Dr Ramadoss, his son Dr Anbumani was appointed as the president of PMK for a fixed term of three years, from May 28, 2022, to May 2025. Upon the expiry of this tenure, Dr Ramadoss alleges that unauthorized and forged documents were created and submitted to the ECI. These documents purportedly misrepresented that a general body meeting was held on August 31, 2023, extending the tenure of office-bearers led by Anbumani first to February 23, 2026, and later to August 1, 2026.
This alleged manipulation has fueled the current legal battle, with Dr Ramadoss asserting his rightful claim over the party's leadership and symbols. The dispute not only threatens to split the party but also casts a shadow over its unity ahead of critical state elections.
Implications for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Elections
The outcome of this legal tussle could have far-reaching consequences for the PMK's participation in the upcoming Assembly elections. The 'Mango' symbol holds significant electoral value, and its allocation could sway voter allegiance. As the court proceedings unfold, political observers are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating potential shifts in alliance dynamics and campaign strategies in both Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
This case highlights the complexities of internal party governance and the legal mechanisms available to resolve such conflicts, setting a precedent for similar disputes in Indian politics.
