In the wake of media reports and complaints from women's groups, State Treasurer Joseph D. Malone '78 has decided to sever his ties with the troubled Pi Eta Speakers Club, an aide to Malone said yesterday.

"At this time, due to his responsibilities in the treasurer's office and due to the negative connotation of being a member of Pi Eta, [Malone] should no longer be associated with the club," Deputy Treasurer Christopher J. Doherty '78 said.

"It doesn't make sense for a public official [to be linked with the club]," he said.

In recent years, a number of women have complained of sexual abuses at the club. Earlier this month, the Pi Eta club settled a lawsuit brought by a New Jersey woman who claimed that she was raped there during a 1988 party.

"Everybody knows the place is mired in controversy," Doherty said.

Malone's position on the Pi Eta Speakers Associates, the 20-member graduate body which oversees the all-male social club, was reported by The Crimson last week.

Doherty said yesterday that neither he nor Malone were clear about Malone's official relationship with the club, but that he would end any connection that exists.

"I definitely plan on just taking whatever steps are necessary to recuse him," Doherty said.

Reached at his home last night, Stephen P. Endlar '56, president of the Pi Eta Speakers Associates, declined to comment on Malone's resignation.

In interviews yesterday, spokespersons for women's groups said they approved of Malone's decision, but questioned its motivation.

"We can all recognize that as a politically smart move and accept it for that," said Ellen J. Zucker, president of the Boston chapter of the National Organization for Women. "It is unfortunate, however, that it was not by his own moral instincts," she added.

"He clearly knew about what was going on at this club," Zucker said. "One would hope that he would keep his personal house in order without being told to do so."

Kathryn I. Frucher '93, co-president of the Radcliffe Union of Students, called Malone's decision "very responsible."

"Someone in his position could really be hurt politically by his affiliation with an organization which shows such blatant disrespect for women," she said.

More Resignations Sought