Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Friday set aside a Vigilance Court order that had revoked the clean chit given to Additional Director General of Police M.R. Ajith Kumar in a disproportionate assets case, bringing major relief to the senior officer.
The High Court ruled that no further probe would be undertaken at this stage and directed that any future complaints must be filed only after obtaining mandatory prior sanction. It also struck down adverse remarks made by the Vigilance Court against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s office, holding that they lacked legal basis and supporting evidence.
The state government had challenged the Vigilance Court’s observations, arguing that they exceeded jurisdiction. Ajith Kumar also appealed, contending that the decision was based solely on unverified allegations made publicly by former MLA P.V. Anvar. He said the lower court had ignored the Vigilance report and documentary evidence before overturning his exoneration.
The High Court observed that courts must exercise caution before interfering with clean chit findings unless prima facie material exists to justify further investigation. Preliminary allegations, it said, do not amount to actionable evidence.
According to the Vigilance report, five charges raised by Anvar, including illegal wealth accumulation, alleged gold smuggling, construction of a luxury residence with illicit funds, teak wood misappropriation, and irregular property dealings, were all found to be false. Records and witness statements confirmed that the teak wood was auctioned legally, the residence was built using legitimate bank transactions, and no financial inconsistencies were detected. The report also found no link between Ajith Kumar and any gold smuggling network.
While stressing that vigilance against corruption is essential, the High Court said reputations should not be damaged by baseless accusations. The ruling is seen as a setback for those seeking renewed action in the case, though it leaves scope for fresh proceedings if pursued under proper legal procedures.
(Inputs from IANS)