Key Points

PMK founder S. Ramadoss has publicly overruled his son Anbumani's decision to expel MLA Arul, citing constitutional authority. He confirmed Arul remains the party's legislative whip while dismissing unilateral actions by the working president. The senior Ramadoss deferred alliance talks until formal party consultations ahead of the 2026 elections. He also commented on education reforms and farmer welfare issues in Tamil Nadu.

Key Points: PMK Founder Ramadoss Overrules Anbumani on MLA Arul Expulsion

  • Ramadoss clarifies only founders can expel members per PMK constitution
  • Anbumani's expulsion of MLA Arul declared invalid
  • Arul retains role as TN Assembly whip
  • Alliance decisions deferred until 2026 party meetings
2 min read

'Only I have authority': PMK founder Ramadoss overrules party President Anbumani Ramadoss in expulsion of MLA Arul

PMK founder S. Ramadoss asserts sole authority to expel MLA Arul, countering party president Anbumani Ramadoss' decision amid internal power tussle.

"Only the founder is vested with such powers under the party’s constitution – Dr. S. Ramadoss"

Chennai, July 3

Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder Dr. S. Ramadoss on Thursday said that the party's Working President Dr Anbumani Ramadoss does not have the authority to expel Salem West MLA R. Arul from the party’s primary membership.

He asserted that only the founder is vested with such powers under the party’s constitution.

Addressing the media at his residence in Thailapuram near Tindivanam, Dr. Ramadoss stated that Arul continues to serve as the party’s whip in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

He added that, at most, PMK's honorary President and Legislature Party leader G.K. Mani could recommend Arul’s removal to the Assembly Speaker — but the Working President has no power to take such a decision unilaterally.

His remarks come a day after Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss publicly announced the expulsion of Arul, accusing him of violating party discipline and tarnishing the party’s image by issuing statements to the media.

Asked about potential alliances for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Dr. Ramadoss said a decision would be taken only after consulting party cadres through the executive council and general council meetings.

"Until then, any speculation about alliances is just a rumour," he said.

In other remarks, Dr. Ramadoss welcomed the Tamil Nadu School Education Department’s new ‘Level Up’ initiative to enhance English proficiency among students. However, he suggested that the programme should be extended to cover students from Classes 1 to 5, in addition to Classes 6 to 8.

Turning his attention to agricultural issues, the PMK founder urged the state government to ensure adequate fertiliser supplies to meet the revised target of 5 lakh acres for Kuruvai paddy cultivation in the delta districts.

He also demanded that the Tamil Nadu government provide a compensation of Rs 1 crore to the family of B. Ajith Kumar, the temple security guard who died in a recent custodial violence incident in Sivaganga district.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
As a PMK supporter from Vanniyar community, I'm disappointed with this public spat. The party should focus on farmers' issues and caste representation rather than internal power struggles. Our people need development, not drama!
S
Siddharth J
The English education initiative is good, but why only focus on urban schools? Government must ensure quality teachers reach rural Tamil Nadu first. Many village schools don't even have proper buildings.
K
Kavitha C
Respectfully, Dr. Ramadoss should let the next generation take decisions. Anbumani has been working hard for the party. If elders don't give space, how will young leaders grow? This is why youth are moving away from traditional parties.
M
Michael C
As an observer of Tamil politics, this exposes the lack of democratic processes in regional parties. The 1 crore compensation demand for the security guard is justified though - custodial deaths must stop!
A
Arun Y
The fertilizer issue is critical for delta farmers. Instead of political fights, all parties should unite to ensure adequate supply. Our annadatas shouldn't suffer because of leaders' egos.

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