PMK Founder Ramadoss Escalates Feud with Son Anbumani, Names Daughter as Faction Successor
In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing family rift within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), founder S Ramadoss has publicly denounced his son and party president R Anbumani as a betrayer, vowing that their conflict will persist indefinitely. The tensions, which have simmered for months, are expected to deepen following the outcome of the April 23 assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, with Ramadoss asserting his unwavering authority over his faction.
Ramadoss Labels Son and Daughter-in-Law as Traitors
In a candid interview, Ramadoss did not mince words, directly accusing Anbumani and his wife Sowmiya of betrayal. "He has snatched my party (PMK), my symbol," Ramadoss stated, referring to the bitter dispute over party control and electoral symbols. He urged voters to reject Anbumani and his candidates, signaling a no-holds-barred approach in the political arena.
When questioned about the possibility of reconciliation, Ramadoss was unequivocal. "There will be no end to it. There will be no compromise," he declared, emphasizing that the feud would continue as long as he is alive. This stance underscores the deep-seated animosity that has fractured the party, with Ramadoss determined to maintain his grip on power.
Succession Plan: Daughter to Lead with Grandson's Support
Asserting his control over the faction he heads, Ramadoss revealed a clear succession plan. "I am holding the reins of my party. If a situation arises where I must give up the reins, I will give it to my daughter. My grandson will help her run the party," he explained. This move sidelines Anbumani entirely, highlighting the personal nature of the conflict and Ramadoss's intent to keep leadership within his immediate family, albeit through a different lineage.
The Supreme Court's recent dismissal of Ramadoss's petitions to use or freeze the 'mango' symbol was seen as a setback, but he downplayed it. "Victory or defeat...some people will get defeated, some will gain victory. But the person, who got victory, will face defeat too. This is common in politics," he remarked, suggesting a long-term view of the political battle.
Allegations of Bias and Failed Mediation Efforts
Ramadoss also launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India, accusing it of being unilateral and biased. "It is unilateral and biased. After this election we will fight for our rights," he asserted, indicating plans for future legal or political challenges. Despite the election context, he rejected calls to end the feud for the sake of party unity, citing Anbumani's unwillingness to compromise.
Several prominent figures, including VIT founder-chancellor G Viswanathan, former Chennai Mayor Saidai Doraisamy, and Thuglak editor S Gurumurthy, attempted to mediate and resolve the impasse. However, Ramadoss noted that these efforts failed because "He (Anbumani) is not agreeing to anything. He is not the kind to agree to anything."
Political Alliances and Election Strategy
The feud has reshaped PMK's political alliances. Ramadoss expressed disappointment that AIADMK leader EPS chose to align with Anbumani, despite viewing AIADMK as a natural ally ideologically and electorally. This led Ramadoss to turn to DMK, though that partnership did not materialize as hoped. "Once AIADMK was a better party. Then we chose AIADMK's rival, DMK," he explained, highlighting the strategic shifts driven by the family conflict.
With limited options, Ramadoss allied with V K Sasikala, fielding 37 candidates in constituencies where Anbumani's faction, including Sowmiya, is contesting. When asked about potential seat wins, Ramadoss deferred to the voters, but firmly ruled out any post-election merger with Anbumani's PMK. "Not at all," he stated, reinforcing the permanence of the split.
Money as the Biggest Enemy in Elections
In a broader critique of the electoral process, Ramadoss identified money as the primary adversary. "Money is our biggest enemy. Only money is conducting the election. This is not a fair election," he lamented. He called for an end to voter bribery, urging candidates to refrain from offering money and voters to reject such inducements. "Every rival party is our enemy," he added, framing the election as a battle against corruption and unethical practices.
This interview reveals a deeply entrenched family feud with significant implications for Tamil Nadu politics, as Ramadoss prepares for a prolonged struggle, both within his party and in the electoral arena.
