Is the ED's Summons to CM Vijayan’s Son Really Tied to the SNC Lavalin Case?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ED summons issued to Vivek Kiran Vijayan.
- Linked to the SNC Lavalin case.
- Concerns about transparency and accountability.
- Political implications ahead of elections.
- Calls for immediate action from Congress leaders.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a summons to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's son, Vivek Kiran Vijayan, which has reignited political discourse after it was revealed that the notice pertains to the SNC Lavalin case, not the Life Mission case as was initially stated.
The ongoing case, currently before the Supreme Court, revolves around alleged irregularities in the modernization of power generators during Vijayan's tenure as Kerala’s Electricity Minister in the E.K. Nayanar administration back in 1996.
The ED's summons was first issued in 2023 as part of an investigation into money laundering allegations linked to the SNC Lavalin deal.
Vivek Kiran failed to appear for questioning, with no further developments recorded, prompting concerns regarding transparency and accountability.
The investigation was initiated in 2020 following a complaint by journalist Crime Nandakumar, who provided testimony in 2021.
Reactions have emerged over the suggestion that Vijayan did not communicate this matter to his party, according to some senior CPI-M leaders.
In light of the inaction, Congress leader Anil Akkara filed a complaint with the central finance ministry and the ED Director, urging that Vivek Kiran be interrogated without delay.
“Despite the summons, no actions have been taken, raising significant concerns about transparency and equitable law enforcement,” he stated.
Congress officials have emphasized that party forums linked to the Chief Minister were not briefed about the notice directed at his son.
The CPI-M has accused the central government of employing the ED as a tool to attack political opponents, but the lack of disclosure regarding the summons has intensified the political uproar.
As Kerala approaches local body elections later this year and Assembly elections in April-May of the following year, the unresolved ED summons to the Chief Minister's son has transformed into a politically charged matter, attracting scrutiny from opposition figures, civil society, and the media, while igniting discussions about transparency and accountability in governance.