Why Did CPI(M) Expel 3-Time MP for Inappropriate Conduct?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Kolkata, April 27 (NationPress) The CPI(M) in West Bengal has officially expelled Bansa Gopal Chowdhury, a three-term Lok Sabha representative, citing charges of extremely inappropriate conduct towards a female colleague.
On April 20, a female party leader, who previously served as a councillor in the Jiaganj-Azimganj Municipality, took to social media to accuse Chowdhury of sending her lewd messages via WhatsApp. She shared screenshots of these alleged messages in her post.
Additionally, she called for disciplinary measures against Chowdhury, who was part of the previous Left Front cabinet before representing the Asansol constituency in the West Burdwan district. He also held a position on the party's West Burdwan district committee.
The woman reported the issue to the party's leadership in November of the previous year, leading to the formation of an internal complaints committee that initiated an investigation.
Chowdhury has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that he is a target of a conspiracy.
Following the social media revelation of the messages, the CPI(M) made the decision to expel Chowdhury from the party.
The party announced his expulsion through a notification released on Sunday morning; however, the notification did not specify the reasons behind his removal.
According to the notification, Chowdhury rejected attempts at reform despite the party leadership's persistent efforts. Consequently, he was expelled based on the internal complaints committee's recommendations.
A state committee leader commented, “Although our representation in the Lok Sabha or Assembly in West Bengal may be minimal, we do not tolerate any form of moral decay within our ranks. It remains to be seen whether he will become an asset for the Trinamool Congress post-expulsion.”