PMK feud: Supporters of S Ramadoss, expelled leader Anbumani clash over anniversary event

NEW DELHI: Supporters of PMK founder S Ramadoss and his estranged son Anbumani Ramadoss clashed on Friday at Tindivanam over access to the Vanniyar Sangam office to pay tribute to reservation movement leaders.While Anbumani’s loyalists were preparing to mark the 38th anniversary of the Vanniyar quota struggle on September 17, Ramadoss supporters objected and allegedly locked the office, leading to heated arguments. Police intervened to prevent violence, news agency PTI reported.

The anniversary commemorates the 1987 protests seeking reservation for Vanniyars, during which 21 people were killed in police firing. Ramadoss expelled Anbumani from the party on September 11, though Anbumani’s aide K Balu called the expulsion invalid. Both factions have lodged complaints with the police, and security personnel were deployed at the Sangam office.(With agency inputs)