PMK founder Dr. S. Ramadoss on Thursday dismissed his son Anbumani Ramadoss’ allegations that the DMK is trying to divide and weaken the party. Calling the charges “blatant lies,” the senior leader said the ruling party has no connection to the internal matters of PMK. However, he chose not to go into further details when pressed by reporters in Chennai.While Anbumani continues to hold meetings with party members across districts, Ramadoss remained tight-lipped about whether he has accepted his son’s public apology. The apology had been made by Anbumani at one of the district-level meetings for having hurt his father during recent differences within the party.
Meanwhile, during a meeting in Salem, Anbumani took a swipe at his father’s loyalists GK Mani and Arul Ramadas, who were absent, citing health reasons. With a sarcastic remark wishing them a “speedy recovery both physically and mentally,” Anbumani drew laughter from the crowd. He went on to claim that the success of the recent Vanniyar Youth Conference had shaken the DMK, fearing loss of Vanniyar support in the next Assembly election. Anbumani assured party workers that he would lead PMK to greater heights and urged them to promote his state-wide rally beginning July 25, aimed at removing the DMK government.
Anbumani also used the occasion to reaffirm his authority within the party. He reminded cadres that his elevation to party president was not self-made but decided by the general council, which also elected Vadivel Ravanan as general secretary and Thilagabama as treasurer. Emphasizing unity and purpose, he told party workers not to be confused or disheartened by the ongoing rift. “Leave the internal issues to me. I will handle them. You focus on strengthening the party among the people,” he said, seeking to shift attention from the leadership tussle to broader political goals.