Exalogic-CMRL payoff case: Govt orders probe against Pinarayi Vijayan

Thiruvananthapuram: The government has ordered a preliminary investigation against Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL Exalogic payment case. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to initiate the probe.

The investigation will be conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by the Crime Branch ADGP. Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter, Veena, and MLA P. A. Mohammed Riyas will also come under the scope of the investigation.

The government’s decision follows legal advice reportedly received in connection with a letter submitted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) concerning Pinarayi Vijayan and former minister P. A. Mohammed Riyas in the CMRL monthly case. The legal opinion stated that there was prima facie evidence of bribery.

According to the advice provided by the Advocate General to the Home Department, it could be presumed that Veena had received the money on behalf of Pinarayi Vijayan and that cases could be registered for accepting bribes and possessing disproportionate assets.

The government’s decision was taken after Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala discussed the legal opinion and related matters with the Chief Minister.

The legal advice also stated that cases could be registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act and for possessing assets disproportionate to known sources of income. In view of this, a Vigilance investigation is considered the primary option.

It further indicated that FIRs could be registered against Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter, T. Veena, and P. A. Mohammed Riyas.