In a nutshell: The Delhi High Court decided that the Election Commission of India (ECI) can't get involved in the family argument within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) party, especially when it's a family issue between Dr. S. Ramadoss and his son, Dr. R. Anbumani. The court suggests taking such problems to a regular court.
The case is about a leadership argument within the Pattali Makkal Katchi, a political party that isn't officially recognized. Dr. S. Ramadoss, the founder, says he is the rightful leader after Dr. R. Anbumani's term ended on May 28, 2025. However, the Election Commission extended Anbumani’s time as leader until August 1, 2026, causing disagreements.
Justice Mini Pushkarna highlighted that the ECI doesn't have the power to decide on internal arguments within political parties that aren't officially recognized. The court stated:
"The ECI has no power or jurisdiction to decide on internal arguments coming from different groups within a political party that isn't officially recognized."
The disagreement is both political and personal, as it involves a father and son. Dr. S. Ramadoss accused Anbumani of acting without permission and even kicked him out of the party on September 11, 2025. The party's internal Disciplinary Action Committee agreed with this decision.
The ECI clarified that its role is only to keep records and that it doesn't get involved in the truth of internal claims. They advised both parties to resolve their issues through regular court cases.
The court dismissed the request, emphasizing that such private disputes should be handled in regular court, not through special requests. This decision highlights the limited role of the ECI in internal party matters, especially when it involves family issues.
