Veteran Tripura CPI-M leader commits suicide

Agartala, Dec 28: The body of veteran CPI(M) leader and former Deputy Speaker of Tripura Legislative Assembly Sunil Kumar Chowdhury was found hanging from a tree at his residence in Sabroom town, about 140 km from here. 86-year-old Chowdhury, a five-time MLA, committed suicide yesterday.

He was cremated with full state honours at his home in Sabroom in the South Tripura district today.

In a suicide note, the police said he had mentioned of unbearable pain from his diseases as the cause behind taking such a step.

Chowdhury was suffering from old-age problems. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, who is presently in Kolkata, in a condolence message, said Chowdhury's death was an irreparable loss to the party.

A press statement issued by the Tripura unit of CPI(M) said "The party will always remember his contribution with deep respect. He was an example of a good organiser and always worked for communal harmony and peace."

Chowdhury was a member of the undivided CPI since 1953 and joined the CPI(M) in 1964. He is survived by his wife, four daughters and a son.

PTI