A combative S Nallakaruppan today announced his decision to quit from the PKR with immediate effect but remained tightlipped on his immediate political plans.

Making the announcement in the midst of 100 of his staunch supporters in a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Nallakaruppan came out charging that the party was guilty of sidelining the Indian community.

"I am disappointed that the party has been marginalising the Indian community and my decision to quit the party arises from that," he said, confirming an earlier malaysiakini exclusive report on his impending decision.

"I am announcing my decision to resign as a member today. As for my immediate plans, I will have to discuss with my family, supporters and friends before making an announcement," he said.

His wife M Vijayakumari and their three children were seated among the crowd when he made his announcement.

He also stated that he has received 'many invitations from other political parties'. However he refused to name the parties.

"There are many parties. Gerakan is there, as well as PPP and DAP. I might even form my own party," he joked.

Nallakaruppan also expressed his disappointment over the role played by his good friend and party adviser Anwar Ibrahim in getting him (Nalla) to withdraw from contesting for the vice president's post.

"He (Anwar) said he's not interfering (in party matters). But he called and asked me to withdraw from the (vice-presidency) race. That is called interference."

'Many to follow'

Nallakaruppan, claiming that he brought in almost 10,000 Indian members to the party, said that 'many' of his supporters would follow his decision to quit the party, but he is not sure of the exact number.

Replying to a supporter who asked why he (Nalla) joined PKR when it has been argued that Anwar had done nothing to the Indian community when he was the country's deputy prime minister, Nallakaruppan said "everyone deserves a second chance".

"If someone falls, he must get up. He's doomed if he doesn't," he said, adding that he (Nallakaruppan) joined PKR because he believed Anwar would do something for the Indian community "after his fall".

"Now when I realise he is not doing anything (for Indians), I have decided to leave the party," he said, adding that he will continue helping the Indian community.

Along with Nallakaruppan, nine senior Indian leaders also quit the party.

Among them are Selangor information chief and Klang division head P Krishnasamy, FT deputy chief and Segambut division chief S Maniselvam (photo) and Bandar Tun Razak vice head M Ganesan.



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