PMK key to AIADMK wins in 35 seats: Anbumani

Chennai, July 13:

Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) president Anbumani Ramadoss on Sunday asserted that his party played a decisive role in the AIADMK’s victories in more than 35 constituencies in the 2026 Assembly elections, even as he claimed that PMK’s four wins were equivalent to securing 40 seats in the current political context.

In a statement issued ahead of the party’s 38th foundation day, Anbumani said the PMK continues to be a determining force in Tamil Nadu politics and a strong voice for the rights of the Tamil community. He extended greetings to party cadres across the world and reiterated the party’s commitment to social justice, prohibition, and the upliftment of backward, most backward, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and minority communities.

Tracing the party’s origins, he noted that PMK was founded by S Ramadoss in 1989 with a clear social justice agenda and has since remained steadfast in its path. He emphasised that political success is not merely about capturing power but also about influencing governance and policy decisions even while remaining outside power.

Highlighting the party’s contributions, Anbumani said PMK has been instrumental in securing multiple reservation measures benefiting millions across the country. He added that the party’s sustained efforts in education, employment, agriculture, irrigation and environmental protection have touched the lives of people across Tamil Nadu.

Referring to the 2026 Assembly elections, he said the party had expected its alliance to come to power and had received strong public support during campaigning. However, an unexpected wave altered the outcome. “Despite that, in more than 35 constituencies, our alliance partners won because of PMK’s strength. Though we won only four seats, those victories are equal to 40 in today’s political situation,” he said.

Anbumani also underlined that the party has not slowed down after the elections and continues its public outreach efforts with greater intensity. He pointed out that PMK’s long-standing demand for a caste-based survey has gained traction, with the present government announcing a social justice survey in the Governor’s address.

On key issues, he reiterated demands for complete waiver of farm loans, stricter action against crimes targeting women and children, and total prohibition including curbing illicit liquor and narcotics to safeguard the youth.

Raising concern over the Mekedatu dam project, Anbumani said it poses a serious threat to Tamil Nadu’s water security and agricultural districts. He noted that his statewide campaign from Biligundlu to Poompuhar had created widespread awareness among the youth, who are now actively voicing opposition to the project.

He asserted that PMK continues to function as a “true opposition” by taking up people’s issues on the ground, even without being in power. At the same time, he said the party’s long-term goal is to move beyond agitation politics and assume governance to fulfil people’s needs, a vision originally set by its founder.

Calling upon party cadres to celebrate the 38th foundation day in a grand manner, Anbumani urged them to organise flag hoisting ceremonies and public meetings across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states, expressing confidence that the coming year would bring further political and social achievements for the party.