Salem West MLA expresses dissatisfaction over alliance

Salem West MLA R. Arul, who belongs to the PMK founder S. Ramadoss’s faction, expressed dissatisfaction over the alliance with V.K. Sasikala. 

On Friday (March 20, 2026), Mr. Arul announced that he is contesting again in the Salem West constituency and started his campaign by meeting party functionaries. Mr. Arul skipped signing of the alliance agreement between the PMK (Dr. Ramadoss’s faction) and the All India Puratchi Thalaivar Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AIPTMMK) led by former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa’s close aide V.K. Sasikala.

Speaking to The Hindu on Saturday (March 21, 2026), Mr. Arul said that he is not happy with the alliance. “Not just myself, Pennagaram MLA G.K. Mani is also not happy with the alliance. I do not know what to do next,” he stated. Mr. Arul added that in the next few days, he will meet reporters and explain his stand. When asked about the possibility of him joining the DMK, Mr. Arul denied that and said it is not true.

Meanwhile, Mr. Arul’s supporters said that after the rift between Dr. Ramadoss and his son Anbumani, Mr. Arul strongly supported Dr. Ramadoss and severely criticised Mr. Anbumani. Due to this, Mr. Anbumani’s supporters allegedly attacked him a few months ago near Vazhapadi. The MLA himself said to the media, at that time, that there is a ‘threat to his life by Mr. Anbumani and his supporters.” Mr. Arul’s supporters added that joining the DMK is safe for his future and they would follow his decision.