The Madras High Court has declined to intervene in a dispute between Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S. Ramadoss and his son, former party president Anbumani Ramadoss, labeling it an "unfortunate ego clash". Justice N. Anand Venkatesh dismissed a petition filed by PMK General Secretary Murali Sankar, who was appointed by S. Ramadoss, seeking to halt a General Body Meeting called by Anbumani. The court held that such internal party matters are beyond the scope of writ jurisdiction.
The dispute arose after Anbumani's three-year term as president ended on May 28, 2025, and S. Ramadoss was nominated as president on May 29. The meeting scheduled by Anbumani for August 9 was deemed illegal by the petitioner, who argued that it violated party by-laws, excluded the founder, and risked creating a law and order problem. The petitioner had previously approached the police to block the meeting, but authorities declined, stating that no prior permission was required for a closed-door party meeting.
Justice Venkatesh attempted to mediate between the father and son on August 8, summoning them to his chambers. Anbumani attended in person, while S. Ramadoss joined via video conference, citing health concerns. However, the mediation failed as the founder refused to engage in dialogue.
The High Court concluded that the dispute revolved around personal differences and party by-laws, which are best addressed in civil proceedings. Justice Venkatesh stated that "a private dispute between the father and the son can never be dealt with in a writ petition," noting the absence of any "semblance of public function or duty" in the case. He cited the Supreme Court's ruling in S. Shobha v. Muthoot Finance Ltd. (2025), reiterating that writs under Article 226 are generally maintainable against public bodies, statutory authorities, or private bodies discharging public duties, not against private political disputes.
The court also addressed concerns about potential law and order issues, noting that police consent was not required for the closed-door meeting and that the police would intervene if necessary.
This internal conflict has sowed confusion among PMK cadre, particularly with elections approaching. There is uncertainty regarding alliances and the face of the campaign. S. Ramadoss has accused his son of lacking leadership skills. He even alleged that Anbumani had bugged his residence. While S. Ramadoss has been openly critical of his son, Anbumani has refrained from publicly attacking his father.
The court's decision allows Anbumani to proceed with the General Council meeting. However, the underlying dispute remains unresolved, potentially leading to further legal battles and internal strife within the PMK. The situation is described as an "unprecedented" one, with the father and son seemingly locked in a battle for control of the party.
