The induction ceremony of Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S Ramadoss’s grandson, Parasuraman Mukundan, as the party’s youth wing president turned dramatic on Saturday, December 28, when a public spat erupted Ramadoss and his son Anbumani Ramadoss. The incident took place during the party’s general council meeting. PMK is an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu.
Parasuraman Mukundan is son of Ramadoss’s elder daughter, Gandhimathi. When Ramadoss announced that his grandson had been appointed youth wing president and would be assisting Anbumani, a visibly angry Anbumani immediately rejected the proposal, stating he did not need any assistance. “He [Parasuraman] joined the party only four months ago. What experience does he have? Qualified people should be selected for the position,” Anbumani said, questioning the grounds of Parasuraman’s appointment.
Interrupting the applause from party workers, Ramadoss then declared that only his decision is final within the party, and that everyone must toe the line. “Nobody can be in this party if they can’t adhere to what I say. This is a party that I created,” Ramadoss said. Anbumani responded to this with sarcasm, prompting a frustrated Ramadoss to suggest that he leave the party.
Following the confrontation, Ramadoss reiterated Parasuraman’s appointment and called for supporters to applaud. However, Anbumani interrupted once again, sarcastically criticising Ramadoss for inducting yet another family member into the party. He then dropped the mic on the table, which was promptly picked up by another party member on stage for an announcement. Anbumani, however, requested the mic once more and told the crowd that those wishing to meet him could do so at his new office in Chennai’s Panaiyur. He proceeded to provide the office address and contact number.
PMK, which holds considerable influence in northern Tamil Nadu, had joined the NDA ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Last year, senior party leader GK Mani’s son, GKM Thamizhkumaran, resigned as president of the youth wing reportedly due to differences with Anbumani.
While founding the party, Ramadoss had said that he would not encourage dynasty politics.