Is SP Venkateshwaran the New PMK Floor Leader in TN Assembly?
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Synopsis
The recent leadership change in the PMK has stirred conversations in Tamil Nadu politics, with S.P. Venkateshwaran stepping in as the new floor leader. This move indicates a shift towards consolidating party loyalty under Anbumani Ramadoss amidst internal rivalries. What does this mean for PMK's future?
Key Takeaways
- S.P. Venkateshwaran is the new PMK floor leader.
- Change was made unanimously at a meeting of party MLAs.
- G.K. Mani served as floor leader for 25 years.
- The leadership shift reflects ongoing internal divisions.
- The party is preparing for the 2026 Assembly elections.
Chennai, Sep 25 (NationPress) In a pivotal transition within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) legislative faction, party president Anbumani Ramadoss has officially notified Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M. Appavu that Dharmapuri MLA S.P. Venkateshwaran will assume the role of the party's floor leader, succeeding long-serving leader and Pennagaram MLA G.K. Mani.
This decision was reached unanimously during a meeting of PMK MLAs in Panaiyur near Chennai on Wednesday, as communicated to the Speaker on Thursday.
In conjunction with Venkateshwaran's ascension, Mettur MLA S. Sadhasivam has been appointed as deputy floor leader, while Mailam MLA C. Sivakumar has been designated as the party's whip within the Assembly.
This shift occurs amidst internal strife within the party.
Despite being at the helm of PMK for 25 years until 2023 and maintaining close ties with party founder S. Ramadoss, Mani currently retains the loyalty of only two of the five PMK MLAs.
The majority of the legislative party now aligns with Anbumani's leadership.
At a press briefing at the Secretariat, PMK spokesperson K. Balu, a staunch supporter of Anbumani, revealed that a separate letter was sent to the Speaker's office reaffirming the party's previous expulsion of Salem West MLA R. Arul and his dismissal from the whip's position.
"Arul should be regarded solely as an MLA and not as a party representative," Balu stated.
He further presented a copy of the Election Commission of India's notice acknowledging Anbumani as the PMK president.
The party has requested the Speaker to allocate a front-row seat for Venkateshwaran, indicating its intention to solidify its legislative presence under Anbumani's leadership.
When questioned about the removal of Mani, Balu recognized his long service but mentioned that some of Mani's recent comments contradicted party discipline and interests.
"We have only relieved him from the floor leader position," he clarified.
Meanwhile, in a related event, expelled MLA R. Arul has approached the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary for enhanced security for founder S. Ramadoss.
Arul cited "crises and ambiguous situations" within the party and Ramadoss's frequent travels, advocating for additional protection measures, including a metal detector at his residence in Thailapuram.
The Speaker is anticipated to respond to the PMK's communications soon, a decision that may influence the formal recognition of the party's legislative strength ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the recent leadership transition in PMK reflects both a strategy for unity and a response to internal challenges. Anbumani Ramadoss's move to appoint Venkateshwaran signals a desire to strengthen party cohesion ahead of crucial elections. The political landscape in Tamil Nadu continues to evolve, and this decision should be closely monitored for its impact on PMK's influence.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new floor leader of PMK?
The new floor leader of PMK is S.P. Venkateshwaran, who replaces G.K. Mani.
What prompted this leadership change?
The change was made to address internal divisions within the party and to consolidate support under Anbumani Ramadoss's leadership.
Who else received new positions in PMK?
S. Sadhasivam has been named deputy floor leader, and C. Sivakumar has been appointed as the party's whip.
What has been the response to G.K. Mani's removal?
PMK spokesperson K. Balu acknowledged Mani's long service but stated that some of his recent comments conflicted with party discipline.
How might this affect PMK ahead of the 2026 elections?
This leadership shift is likely aimed at consolidating legislative strength and enhancing party unity as PMK prepares for the upcoming elections.
