AIADMK or DMK? Ramadoss Maintains Silence — Will He Succeed or Slip in Alliance Strategy?

The political temperature in Tamil Nadu is rising steadily as the 2026 Assembly elections approach. The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has begun seat-sharing talks with its alliance partners, while All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led National Democratic Alliance is also expected to commence negotiations soon, as announced by Edappadi K. Palaniswami.

However, there has been no clear announcement regarding which front the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) will join, leading to heightened anticipation in political circles.

In a development that few anticipated, the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) joined the DMK alliance, dealing a political jolt to the AIADMK. Meanwhile, PMK founder S. Ramadoss has maintained silence without revealing his alliance stance.

Father–Son Rift: A Power Struggle?

At the PMK general council meeting held in Puducherry last year, Anbumani Ramadoss strongly opposed the appointment of Mukundan as Youth Wing leader. What was initially perceived as a ‘father–son’ clash later evolved into an internal power struggle within the party.

As a result, the PMK was pushed into functioning as two separate factions — one led by Anbumani and the other by Ramadoss. Both sides engaged in independent political activities, with mutual allegations creating considerable buzz in political circles.

Anbumani in the AIADMK Camp

In this backdrop, Anbumani joining the AIADMK alliance was seen as a significant turning point. Political sources indicate that during negotiations, the PMK may be offered 17 Assembly seats and one Rajya Sabha seat.

It is also said that assurances regarding the restoration of 10.5 per cent internal reservation for Vanniyars prompted Anbumani to align with the AIADMK.

Party Symbol Dispute — Legal Battle

Amid these developments, the Election Commission issued a letter recognising the party and its symbol in favour of Anbumani. Opposing this move, Ramadoss approached the court. During the hearing, the court recorded that the Election Commission had acted based on documents submitted by Anbumani. The case was subsequently dismissed, placing Ramadoss under political strain.

With the possibility of joining the AIADMK narrowing, it is said that Ramadoss’ faction held alliance talks with the DMK. Given that the PMK is considered to have a vote base in northern districts, sources indicate that the DMK showed interest in securing the support of Ramadoss’ faction despite the split.

However, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) is said to have opposed this move, with its leader Thol. Thirumavalavan publicly expressing his views.

Meanwhile, Arul and G. K. Mani from the Ramadoss camp have been asserting that the 2026 elections will be faced as part of an alliance.

Thailapuram Meeting — Decision or Continued Silence?

In this context, a consultative meeting of PMK district secretaries and Vanniyar Sangam state and district leaders has been planned at Thailapuram in Villupuram district. Key decisions regarding election work and alliance stance are expected to be discussed.

Political observers are keenly watching whether Ramadoss will finally clarify his alliance position this time.

AIADMK? DMK? Or a solo contest? Whether Ramadoss, wielding silence as a strategic tool, will succeed or falter in his political manoeuvre will become clear in the weeks ahead.