Pathanamthitta (Kerala)/Hyderabad, Sept 19 (Maxim News): The Kerala government has received the Advocate General’s legal opinion on the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) request to register a corruption case against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena and son-in-law and MLA P.A. Mohamed Riyas.
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said on Saturday that the government would examine the opinion before deciding on further action. He said the matter would be discussed with Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and handled according to law.
The ED had recently asked the Kerala Police to register an FIR against Vijayan, Veena, Riyas and others in connection with its investigation into financial transactions involving Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL). The agency has alleged that CMRL made payments to Veena’s now-defunct company, Exalogic Solutions, and has sought action under provisions including the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Legal Opinion Clears Way for Further Action
According to the Advocate General’s opinion reported on Saturday, the police can accept the ED report and register an FIR if a cognisable offence is made out. A preliminary inquiry may also be conducted before registration of a case, if considered necessary.
The ED’s case relates to alleged payments made by CMRL to Exalogic. The agency has alleged that the payments were made without corresponding services and were linked to alleged corruption. These remain allegations under investigation.
Riyas has rejected the allegations and criticised the ED probe, saying the agency had not found illegal money during its searches. Pinarayi Vijayan has also defended his daughter’s company, saying its payments were properly accounted for and taxes were paid.
Chennithala said the government would take further steps after examining the legal opinion. The final decision on whether to register an FIR or order a preliminary inquiry is yet to be announced.
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