Kochi, 09 Oct (H.S.): The Kerala High Court on Friday held that a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act could be registered against Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena and former minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas on the basis of a letter from the Enforcement Directorate.

Justice A. Badarudeen delivered the order in connection with the CMRL–Exalogic payments controversy, according to the update provided. The matter concerns whether information furnished by the central agency can form the basis for initiating criminal proceedings under the anti-corruption law.

The ED had written to the Kerala police chief seeking registration of an FIR against the three. In its September 7 communication, the agency alleged that financial transactions involving Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) and Veena’s company, Exalogic Solutions, warranted investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act and other relevant laws.

The controversy centres on payments made by CMRL to Veena and Exalogic. Findings of the Income Tax Department’s Interim Board for Settlement brought the transactions under scrutiny, with payments amounting to Rs 1.72 crore during the relevant assessment years held ineligible for treatment as business expenditure. Investigators have alleged that the payments were made without corresponding services being provided.

The ED subsequently examined whether the transactions involved proceeds of crime. Its allegations include claims that payments routed through Veena were linked to favours sought from Vijayan when he was chief minister. These remain allegations requiring judicial examination.

Vijayan and Veena have denied wrongdoing in related court proceedings. Riyas has also rejected the ED’s allegations, describing them as politically motivated and intended to damage his reputation through a media trial.

The reported ruling concerns the initiation of a corruption case. It does not establish the guilt of any person named in the proceedings; criminal liability would require investigation and determination through the legal process.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman