PMK founder S. Ramadoss to retire from active politics

PMK founder S. Ramadoss has reportedly expressed his willingness to step aside and retire from active politics and said his son and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) president Anbumani Ramadoss would take care of party affairs here on.

Dr. Ramadoss reportedly made this announcement at a family gathering in Thailapuram on the eve of his 88th birthday. The decision brings an end to a political career that has seen the highest of highs and lowest of lows and associations with some of the tallest leaders in both State and national parties.

Dr. Ramadoss, who had a falling out with Dr. Anbumani before the election, chose to bury the hatchet when he met the latter recently and embraced him, photos of which were made public. Dr. Ramadoss’s supporters — especially former PMK president G.K. Mani and former MLA R. Arul — who had backed him strongly and antagonised Dr. Anbumani, may find it difficult to reconcile to the new development.

Stalin’s greeting

Former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wished Dr. Ramadoss on his birthday and said: “Having led numerous struggles for social justice and served as a powerful voice, I wish that your retirement is filled with contentment and joy.”