Salem: On Saturday, the Vanniyar Sangam, the foundation of the OBC-Vanniyars based party, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) in Tamil Nadu, formally split from the party. The Sangam made the news of the split official with the launch of a new organisation named, Maaveeran J Guru Vanniyar Sangam. The party's new office-bearers promised that they will fight the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) youth wing leader Anbumani Ramadoss in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from wherever he contests.

According to reports, the family members of the late party veteran Kaduvetti J Guru led the divide, as their community felt ignored after the demise of the Vanniyar Sangam president. They declared Vengai Ayyanaar, coordinator of the new Maaveeran J Guru Vanniyar Sangam.

While addressing a gathering during the launch, Vengai Ayyanaar said that Kaduvetti Guru dedicated his life for the betterment of the Vanniyar Sangam till his last breath. He further said that Kaduvetti Guru’s mother, Kalyani will compete against Anbumani Ramadoss in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in the constituency the PMK leader might contest.

However, Ayyanaar also said that once Ramadoss announces his party's alliance, “many people will quit and join us.”

“We will take all steps for the protection and development of the Vanniyar community. The ‘Vanniyar Trust’ announced by the State government recently is eyewash,” he said.

Ayyanaar further said that this split from the party and the launch of the Sangam will have an effect on the PMK.