The case holds political significance. The probe will focus on Kerala’s former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena T and former minister Mohammed Riyas, who also is the spouse of Veena.
The Kerala government has formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the Enforcement Directorate’s findings in the controversial “monthly payment” case involving Cochin Minerals and Rutiles Limited, with the probe set to focus primarily on alleged hawala transactions.
The government had received legal advice that a case could be registered against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The government, however, has decided to conduct a preliminary investigation before taking a call on registering a case. The decision was taken following discussions between Chief Minister VD Satheesan and Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala. The BJP has alleged that the Congress-led UDF is trying to protect the former Chief Minister by not filing an FIR.
Government Acts 15 Days After ED Letter The decision comes 15 days after the Enforcement Directorate formally wrote to the Kerala government, seeking action on its findings.
