Thiruvananthapuram,24 May (H.S.): A vigilance investigation has been initiated against former Kerala minister Roshi Augustine over allegations of irregularities involving the ₹112-crore Malankara tourism project. The probe comes just six days after the new state government assumed office and marks a significant development in a case that had earlier sparked political discussion.

The inquiry has been entrusted to the Vigilance Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) in Idukki following a complaint alleging irregularities in the awarding of a contract related to the tourism project. The complaint concerns the selection of FSIT Redefine Destinations Private Limited for the project and alleges that procedural norms were violated during the process.

The complaint was filed by Baby Joseph, a resident of Muttom in Idukki district. According to the complaint, the former minister had direct involvement in the alleged irregularities surrounding the project and the awarding of the contract.

The allegations had surfaced earlier as well, creating political debate at the time. However, no formal complaint had been lodged then, and no official investigation was initiated. With a formal complaint now submitted, the Vigilance department has registered a case and commenced a preliminary investigation into the matter.

Roshi Augustine had not publicly responded when similar allegations emerged earlier. Officials are expected to examine the contract process and related records as part of the investigation to determine whether there were any violations or misuse of authority.

The development comes at a politically sensitive time for Kerala Congress (M), which suffered a major setback in the recent Assembly elections. Roshi Augustine is considered one of the senior leaders and influential figures within the party. The UDF government has indicated that it would pursue strict action if evidence emerges linking the former minister directly to any wrongdoing.

The outcome of the investigation is expected to have both legal and political implications in the coming weeks.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman