Thiruvananthapuram, 20 September (H.S.): The Kerala government is expected to decide within three days on the Enforcement Directorate’s request for an investigation into the financial transactions between Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) and Exalogic Solutions.

A crucial decision is likely to be taken during a meeting between Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Tuesday. In a letter submitted to the Director General of Police, the ED reportedly sought the registration of a case and an investigation against Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, former minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas and others.

The government is examining the legal opinion provided by Advocate General Jaju Babu before initiating further proceedings. The Advocate General has advised that the allegations concerning the CMRL–Exalogic payments and the suspected hawala transactions could be investigated. However, the government may decide the nature and scope of the proposed inquiry.

The legal opinion, currently under consideration by the Home Secretary, suggests two possible courses of action. The police could either register an FIR directly on the basis of the ED’s findings or conduct a preliminary vigilance inquiry before deciding whether a criminal case should be filed.

Government sources indicated that the administration was leaning towards a preliminary vigilance inquiry. An FIR may be registered only if the initial examination uncovers sufficient evidence warranting a detailed investigation.

The government is also expected to consider the possibility of allegations that the proceedings are politically motivated. It is likely to maintain that any decision will be based solely on legal considerations and available evidence.

The ED has alleged that ₹3.28 crore paid by CMRL to Exalogic, a company associated with Veena Vijayan, constituted an illegal payment intended for Pinarayi Vijayan when he was Chief Minister. The CPM has rejected the allegation and said it would challenge any criminal proceedings both legally and politically.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman