PMK youth wing chief Mukundan resigns amid family tensions, backs Anbumani
The resignation follows a period of reported discord within the PMK, sparked by Ramadoss’s decision in December 2024 to appoint Mukundan as the youth wing president
In a dramatic turn of events within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), P Mukundan, the recently appointed president of the party’s youth wing, announced his resignation from the post on Thursday (May 29), citing personal reasons.
The announcement comes on the heels of a heated press conference by PMK founder S Ramadoss, which has intensified speculation about internal rifts within the party, particularly between Ramadoss and his son, Anbumani Ramadoss, the party president.
Bid to defuse tension
In a letter that has sent shockwaves through the PMK cadre, Mukundan, who is Ramadoss’s grandson and Anbumani’s nephew, stated, “For personal reasons, I am resigning from the post of PMK Youth Wing President. Dr Ramadoss is my family deity, and Dr Anbumani Ramadoss is my future.” The statement, which reaffirms his loyalty to both leaders while stepping down, has been widely interpreted as an attempt to defuse escalating tensions within the party.
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The resignation follows a period of reported discord within the PMK, sparked by Ramadoss’s decision in December 2024 to appoint Mukundan as the youth wing president during the party’s general council meeting. Anbumani had publicly opposed the appointment, arguing that Mukundan, who had joined the party only four months prior, lacked the experience for such a key role. This disagreement led to Ramadoss declaring himself the party president and demoting Anbumani to the role of working president, a move that triggered protests from Anbumani’s supporters.
Conciliatory gesture
Mukundan’s resignation letter, however, appears to signal a conciliatory gesture. Political analysts view this as a strategic move to prevent a potential split in the PMK, which holds significant influence among the Vanniyar community in northern and western Tamil Nadu.
Meanwhile, Anbumani’s supporters, including party treasurer M Thilagabama, have called for clarity on leadership roles to avoid further confusion.