Kerala HC dismisses petitions for vigilance probe

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday dismissed petitions filed by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan and late Gireesh Babu of Kalamassery seeking a vigilance probe into the alleged illegal financial transactions between Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T Veena, and three UDF leaders.

“An unnecessary investigation or an enquiry into an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act against a public servant based on suspicions may cause a blemish on his career or reputation. Being called to appear before a criminal court as an accused is a serious matter that affects one’s dignity, self-respect, and image in the society,” said Justice K Babu.

The complainants alleged that CMRL paid Rs.1.72 Crores to Exalogic Solution Pvt Ltd and Veena T, which was a bribe paid to Pinarayi Vijayan for doing favors and misusing his official position. Besides, other public servants – MLA Ramesh Chennithala, MLA Kunhalikutty and former Minister for Public Works V K Ebrahim Kunju, and A Govindan – were also named as accused in the matter for having received illegal gratification.