Is There a Threat to the Lives of PMK Functionaries Supporting Dr. Ramadoss?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- R. Arul raises serious safety concerns for PMK party functionaries.
- Anbumani Ramadoss's accusations challenge Dr. Ramadoss's leadership.
- Support for Dr. Ramadoss remains strong among key demographics.
- Dr. Ramadoss's contributions to elevating ordinary individuals to leadership roles.
- Ongoing tensions within PMK threaten the party's unity and future.
Chennai, June 29 (NationPress) The MLA of Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), R. Arul, has raised alarming concerns regarding the safety of various party officials, including himself, due to their allegiance to party founder Dr. S. Ramadoss. In a media interaction, Arul, who represents Salem West, addressed claims made by former Union Minister and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss against his father.
Anbumani had accused Dr. Ramadoss of irrational behavior over the last five years, alleging that he appointed individuals with criminal backgrounds and even street vendors to significant positions within the party.
In defense, Arul stated, "If that were true, Dr. Ramadoss appointed Anbumani as the party President three years ago. How can that be justified if he was allegedly acting childishly?"
He further revealed that Dr. Ramadoss has remained confined to his residence in Thailapuram for the past two years due to these ongoing tensions.
"We cannot accept the disrespect directed towards Dr. Ramadoss. Disrespecting him is akin to disrespecting the working-class people," asserted Arul. He emphasized that while some party members might support Anbumani, the Vanniyar community, along with backward classes and minorities, stand solidly behind Dr. Ramadoss.
Arul highlighted Dr. Ramadoss's significant contributions to the party, stating that he has promoted ordinary individuals to roles such as Union Ministers, MPs, and MLAs.
"When PMK was established, Anbumani was merely 21 years old. Dr. Ramadoss guided him into party leadership. The current honorary President, G.K. Mani, even stepped aside to allow Anbumani to assume the President role. However, a group on social media is now targeting Mani and other senior leaders," he commented.
Arul implored Anbumani to heed his father’s guidance, asserting: "Anbumani is a decent individual, but he is influenced by the wrong crowd."
He also remarked that PMK has encountered challenges for the last 15 years, noting that Makkal TV, the party's television network, has not featured Dr. Ramadoss for the past six months.
"We have no opposition to Anbumani. He represents the future of PMK. However, we are compelled to speak up now due to his criticisms of Dr. Ramadoss. Ultimately, the public will differentiate between the sacrifices made by Dr. Ramadoss and Anbumani. Dr. Ramadoss will always prioritize the interests of the people and the party," Arul concluded.