Sovan dismisses speculations, says 'I'm going to stay'

Kolkata: Brushing aside all speculation that he is going to be replaced as Mayor, Sovan Chatterjee on Tuesday confirmed that he would continue as the first citizen and would carry out his duties as minister of three departments.

Chatterjee said he had a discussion with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and claimed that he had apprised her of the situation. He alleged that some people with vested interests were involved in mud-slinging and "playing the nasty game" of highlighting his personal life. "I had a discussion with Mamata Banerjee but she did not take the name of Baishaki Bandyopadhyay even once," he said.

The Mayor said there was no question of going back to his ancestral house. "We have been married for 24 years but the way my faith has been demolished, my mortal remains will not go back to that house," he maintained.

Expressing his deep gratitude towards Baishaki Bandyopadhyay, the Mayor said "When I was facing trouble from my family members, she stood beside me and gave me mental support and inspiration. How can I forget her gesture?" he said.

Chatterjee said that it will be most unfortunate, if Baishakhi Bandyopadhyay is punished for having connections with him. Bandyopadhyay was recently dropped from the committee of West Bengal College and University Professors' Association (WBCUPA).

Asked whether he will go back to his family, he said "the question of going back does not arise." Chatterjee said Mamata Banerjee had never asked him to relinquish the post. "She wants me to continue," he said. For the past few days, there has been speculation over his resignation as Mayor. However, Chatterjee has made it clear that the matter is now a closed chapter.