Salem (Tamil Nadu), April 12 (AHN) Amid an ongoing internal rift within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, party founder S. Ramadoss was hospitalised on Sunday after collapsing during a campaign rally in Salem district, triggering concern among supporters and party workers.

The PMK has been witnessing a visible leadership divide between Ramadoss and his son, party President Anbumani Ramadoss, with both leaders operating independently and asserting control over the party.

In the current political alignment, the PMK faction led by Anbumani Ramadoss is part of the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Meanwhile, Ramadoss has taken a different political route, aligning with the AIADMK faction associated with V. K. Sasikala, a close aide of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.

As part of his independent campaign efforts, Ramadoss had announced a separate list of candidates contesting in his name.

On Sunday, he formally launched his campaign by canvassing support for PMK candidate Arul in Pallapatti, located in Salem.

Addressing a public rally in the area, Ramadoss urged voters to support Arul and actively campaigned among the gathered crowd.

Eyewitnesses said the veteran leader appeared energetic while speaking and interacting with supporters. However, shortly after concluding his speech and stepping down from the stage to proceed to his next campaign stop, Ramadoss suddenly complained of uneasiness and collapsed. He reportedly lost consciousness, prompting immediate panic among those present at the venue. Party workers and volunteers quickly rushed to his aid, holding him from behind to prevent a fall.

He was then swiftly shifted to a nearby hospital in an ambulance.

The incident caused a brief commotion at the rally site, with supporters expressing concern over his health. His daughter Sreekanthi, candidate Arul, and several senior party members accompanied him to the hospital.

Hospital sources said Ramadoss is currently under medical observation and receiving treatment. Further details regarding his condition are awaited.

The incident has added a new dimension to the already tense political situation within the PMK ahead of the crucial Assembly elections.