Somnath wants to quit politics: Ex-CPI-M MP

Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, who was expelled by the Communist Party of India-Marxist for refusing to quit his post despite the party directive, has expressed his desire to quit politics and do charitable work, former CPI-M MP Saifuddin Chowdhury claimed.

"I will quit politics and do charitable work," Chatterjee, who was visibly hurt by the CPI-M's decision, was quoted by Chowdhury on Tuesday. The former MP had met the speaker at the latter's residence during the day.

Chowdhury, who now heads the Party For Democratic Socialism, after he was expelled from the CPI-M for alleged anti-party activities in early 2000, was accompanied by PDS leader Samir Patitundu during the hour-long talk.

Chowdhury said Chatterjee told him that he was "hurt" and "annoyed" at the decision to expel him.

At the same time the speaker acknowledged letters received from many quarters praising him for his stance, Chowdhury told PTI.

Chowdhury said he requested Chatterjee not to quit politics at this stage because "he was not doing any party politics, but doing something for the sake of the nation."

"I found him not only sad and depressed at his expulsion, but also angry," Chowdhury said noting the speaker had many contributions towards the betterment of society.

Chowdhury said Chatterjee did not give any hint when he would resign from his post or would appeal to the party for revocation of his expulsion.

Chatterjee, who arrived here yesterday from Delhi, was not available for comment.