S Ramadoss, the founder of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), announced on Thursday the expulsion of his son and former Union minister Anbumani Ramadoss from the party, citing allegations of ‘anti-party activities.’ Anbumani reportedly disregarded a show-cause notice that listed 16 charges against him, including efforts to establish a parallel structure and allegedly installing a surveillance device on his father’s chair. This decision came after unsuccessful mediation attempts by leaders from BJP, RSS, and VIT Chancellor G Viswanathan to mend the family dispute. An emotionally affected Ramadoss stated he had issued warnings to his son over the years but ultimately felt he had no alternative.
This development is expected to weaken the BJP-led NDA in Tamil Nadu as the PMK’s division could impact its OBC support, particularly among the Vanniyars. Although Anbumani has yet to respond, party insiders suggest he might contest the expulsion or consider starting a new political party.