PMK Power Shift: S Ramadoss Appoints Daughter Sreegandhi as Working President After Son’s Expulsion

In a significant leadership reshuffle within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), party founder Dr. S Ramadoss appointed his elder daughter, Sreegandhi Parasuraman, as the party's working president on October 25. The move comes a month after his son, Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss, was expelled for alleged anti-party activities and defiance of senior leadership.

Background of the Family Rift

Tensions within the Ramadoss family have been simmering for months. In April 2025, Dr. Ramadoss reclaimed full control of the party by reappointing himself as president, while demoting Anbumani to the position of working president. The younger Ramadoss, however, maintained that he continued to hold the top post based on a resolution recognized by the Election Commission of India, leading to a public dispute over leadership legitimacy.

Appointment Formalised in Dharmapuri

The elevation of Sreegandhi Parasuraman was formalised at the party's general council meeting in Dharmapuri. Addressing the gathering, Dr Ramadoss expressed faith in his daughter's ability to "uphold Tamil Nadu's pride" and drive the PMK's growth.

Sreegandhi, acknowledging the appointment as "unexpected," vowed to work under the guidance of the party leadership and strengthen its organizational structure.

Reshuffle Extends to Youth Wing

In another key announcement, GKM Tamil Kumaran, son of senior leader and Ramadoss loyalist GK Mani, was named the youth wing president. The move signals Dr. Ramadoss's intent to consolidate power by surrounding himself with trusted allies and family members.

Anbumani's Silence and Political Implications

When contacted in Tiruppur, Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss declined to comment on the leadership changes, describing them as an "internal party matter."

The developments mark a decisive phase in PMK's internal power struggle, with Dr Ramadoss tightening his grip on the organization ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.