Should CM Vijayan Resign After Vigilance Court's Ruling?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- UDF demands resignation of CM Pinarayi Vijayan.
- Vigilance Court rejects clean chit for ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar.
- Allegations of political interference and corruption emerge.
- Calls for transparency and accountability in governance.
- Political fallout intensifies in Kerala.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 16 (NationPress) The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has called for the resignation of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan following the Vigilance Court's decision to reject the clean chit previously awarded to ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar in a case concerning disproportionate assets.
Ajith Kumar, a senior police official embroiled in numerous corruption allegations, is seen as a close associate of Vijayan.
UDF convenor and Member of Parliament Adoor Prakash stated that the court's remarks were “extremely serious,” indicating direct political meddling.
“The Vigilance report was dismissed due to a lack of thorough investigation and disregard for evidence, leading the court to conclude that such a report is unacceptable. Additionally, the court hinted at political interference and abuse of power,” Prakash remarked.
He further emphasized that the Chief Minister's office has shielded Ajith Kumar for an extended period. “The citizens of Kerala have a right to know the rationale behind this protection. The court's observations now present a chance to reveal the truth,” he asserted.
Prakash insisted that Vijayan must resign immediately and submit to an unbiased investigation. “This goes beyond just a single officer; it pertains to political accountability. The Chief Minister cannot remain in power while such serious allegations hang in the balance. If the Left Democratic Front (LDF) values its integrity, its partners should demand his resignation. Otherwise, the public will perceive them as complicit in undermining the judicial system,” he stated.
State Congress president Sunny Joseph backed this demand, asserting that the Vigilance report exhibited the “clear endorsement” of the Chief Minister. “CM Vijayan lacks the moral authority to continue in his position. The Vigilance Court has meticulously outlined how the biased report was crafted to protect the senior police official,” Joseph remarked.
In a related development, Advocate N. Nagaraj, the original complainant in this matter, announced plans to approach the court again, this time targeting the Vigilance officers who issued the clean chit.
“Their report was generated without even basic information being collected. I will ask the court to recover the salaries and allowances paid to that team, as they did nothing whatsoever. They acted with the support of the Chief Minister’s office,” he alleged.
The Vigilance Court’s ruling has sparked a political uproar in Kerala, with the opposition ramping up its criticism of the government.