CPM MP Ritabrata Banerjee has been suspended by the party for three months after he was accused of maintaining an ‘expensive lifestyle’. Some allegations against the young MP specify that his usage of expensive gadgets that do not comply with the party’s ideology.
The 38-year old MP, recognised as an efficient parliamentarian, is known to be fond of a good life, though his party ideologically encourages an austere lifestyle.
He uploaded a picture on social media this February, sporting a Mont Blanc pen and an Apple smart watch.
The photograph created a stir and a 24-year-old CPM worker sought to know how Banerjee paid for it. The MP allegedly wrote to the company where the supporter worked and the issue became an embarrassment for the party.
Party was not satisfied with the conduct of the Rajya Sabha MP during Left’s Nabanna Chalo (march to the state secretariat) last month.
According to sources in CPM ranks, Bengal state secretary and polit buro member, Suryakanta Mishra today announced the decision in the state committee meeting. A three member inquiry commission has been formed to probe into the complaints against Banerjee.
The commission has been asked to submit its report in two months and till the inquiry gets over, Banerjee would remain suspended, Mishra is said to have told the state committee.
Earlier, in February the CPIM had cautioned Banerjee after controversy had erupted involving the party Rajya Sabha MP in the social media. CPIM general secretary Sitaram Yechury had then said that the party would soon come up with guidelines on the use of social media both at the state level and national level on matters relating to the party.
