Suspended TMC MLA announces retirement from politics

Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Swapan Kanti Ghosh on Thursday announced his retirement from politics but will continue his role as legislator till early next year.

Ghosh said, “People from Suri have not seen the face of development despite electing me as an MLA. I would like to inform the people that there is no question of stepping back from the fight that is going in the High Court in connection with a water treatment plant.”

“I am taking myself out from politics, but I am not resigning from the post of MLA. I have decided to continue as an MLA considering the request of the people from Suri. I am the only Trinamool Congress MLA from Suri sub-division and people need MLA’s certificate for various purposes. If I resign then people from Suri need to travel to Rampurhat or Bolpur for similar purposes,” Ghosh said here. However, he said he is not resigning as an MLA now.

“If I resign now the people of my constituency will have problems in getting things done as they will have to run to other places. I will not be available for any party related activities any more but will continue to work as an MLA for development of my area till early next year,” he said.

The legislator was suspended on February 25 after he staged a demonstration at the assembly premises alleging that the Trinamool-run Suri municipality siphoned off Rs 10.36 crore meant for central schemes including a drinking water project.

When asked whether his suspension has anything to do with quitting politics, he replied in the negative.

“I could have joined any other political party if I wanted to. But I have no faith left in any political party now,” Ghosh said adding that he did not enjoy politics any more.

“I had psychiatric problems and have other health issues like diabetes and blood pressure. Now things will be all right,” he added.