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 order to form the SIT was issued by the state police chief, with directions to complete the investigation within a stipulated timeframe. The team has been given 30 days to complete its preliminary inquiry.
The investigation will begin with the findings and material shared by the Enforcement Directorate. The alleged hawala transactions flagged by the central agency are expected to form a key part of the probe. The government, however, has decided to conduct a preliminary investigation before taking a call on registering a case. 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 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.
