Dr. S. Ramadoss Takes Over as PMK President from Anbumani Ahead of 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections
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Synopsis
In a major political shift, Dr. S. Ramadoss has taken the helm as President of PMK, replacing his son Anbumani Ramadoss, who now serves as Executive President, ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. S. Ramadoss replaces Anbumani as PMK President.
- Anbumani will now serve as Executive President.
- G.K. Mani appointed honorary President.
- Ramadoss emphasizes grassroots engagement.
- Leadership change aligns with 2026 elections.
Chennai, April 10 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events in the political sphere, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder Dr. S. Ramadoss has announced his return as the President of the party, taking over from his son Anbumani Ramadoss, who will now occupy the position of Executive President.
This declaration was made during a press conference at Ramadoss’ residence in Thailapuram, Villupuram, on Thursday.
He emphasized that this decision aligns with the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
“I officially take on the role of President of the PMK and designate Anbumani Ramadoss as the Executive President of the party,” stated the seasoned leader.
Additionally, he revealed that G.K. Mani, a senior party leader, will take on the title of honorary President.
The PMK is recognized as the political force representing the powerful Vanniyar community, which holds considerable influence in the northern and central parts of Tamil Nadu.
Reflecting on his journey, Ramadoss recounted the establishment of the Vanniyar Sangam — the foundational body of PMK — in 1980 while he was still a practicing physician.
“I embarked on my political journey traveling on buses, often standing,” he reminisced.
He emotionally recalled the 1987 ‘road roko’ protests, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals. “That heartbreaking event prompted me to establish the PMK in 1989,” he mentioned.
Ramadoss underscored his grassroots involvement, asserting he has visited over 95,000 villages throughout Tamil Nadu.
“I dedicated myself to securing MBC reservation for the Vanniyar community. From achieving positions in local governance to serving as Union Ministers, these accomplishments form part of my legacy,” he said.
He also shared his experiences of being imprisoned multiple times for advocating social justice.
“I have faced incarceration in nearly every Central Prison in the state, except for the one in Palayamkottai,” he noted.
“My health declined during this time, but the steadfast support of my party members helped me recover.”
This leadership transition occurs just four months after public disputes between Ramadoss and Anbumani were evident during a Special General Council meeting in Puducherry on December 28, 2024.
Sources within the party suggest that Ramadoss has been increasingly dissatisfied with PMK's growing ties to the BJP in recent years. He is believed to be eager to realign the party with its foundational mission — uplifting the Vanniyar community — and may consider alliances primarily with Dravidian parties if required.
The timing of this announcement is noteworthy as it coincides with the impending conclusion of Anbumani Ramadoss’ Rajya Sabha term.
