PMK MLA Arul’s car attacked in Salem during clash between supporters of Anbumani and Ramadoss

Pattali Makkal Katchi’s (PMK) Salem West MLA R. Arul and his supporters, who belong to the camp of party founder S. Ramadoss, were allegedly attacked by supporters of the party leader Anbumani Ramadoss in Salem on Tuesday (November 4, 2025).

Mr. Arul, along with party functionaries, had gone to Pethanaickenpalayam. When they reached near Vazhapadi while returning, a gang hurled stones at the vehicles of Mr. Arul and others. In “retaliation,” Mr. Arul’s supporters also threw stones at the rival group.

Would have been killed: Arul

Mr. Arul said he had visited the PMK Pethanaickenpalayam union secretary’s house. “While returning to Salem, 20 supporters of Anbumani raised slogans in support of him and attacked our car,” he alleged. “They attacked the car with stones, wooden logs, and iron rods. If I had come out of the car, they would have killed me,” he claimed. The attack took place even though a few policemen were present and tried to rein in the group.

The legislator said Mr. Anbumani was speaking about decent and developmental politics. “Is this decent politics?”, he asked.

“Around 50 cadres came with me in multiple vehicles. But, I instructed them not to get out of their vehicles. We lodged a complaint with the police and believe action will be taken against the culprits,” he added.

Five injured

Mr. Arul said five cadres sustained injuries and they were taken to the Salem Government Hospital. One policeman also sustained injuries in the stone pelting.

“We believe police will provide us protection. Mr. Ramadoss and the party’s “honorary president” G.K. Mani called me over the phone and asked about the incident. We urge Mr. Anbumani not to divert the youth like this,” he said.