Should CM Vijayan Resign from Home Portfolio Over Allegations of Protecting ‘Tainted’ Top Cop?
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Synopsis
A political storm brews in Kerala as the Congress party challenges CM Vijayan's integrity following a court ruling. The Vigilance Court's dismissal of a clean chit for ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar raises questions about potential misconduct and political shielding. Will Vijayan relinquish his Home portfolio amid these serious allegations?
Key Takeaways
- Political tension in Kerala heightened by court ruling.
- CM Vijayan faces calls for resignation from Congress party.
- Allegations against ADGP raise concerns about corruption and misconduct.
- Court criticizes VACB enquiry for lack of due process.
- Demands for an independent probe into the allegations.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 15 (NationPress) The recent dismissal of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau’s (VACB) clean chit to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) and Excise Commissioner M.R. Ajith Kumar in a case concerning disproportionate assets has ignited a political controversy in Kerala.
The Congress party on Friday called upon Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to step down from the Home portfolio amid allegations of safeguarding the senior official.
In a decisive ruling issued on Thursday, the court remarked that while an enquiry was initiated, it failed to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Supreme Court.
“The enquiry officer did not address the issue legally and submitted a report aimed at exonerating the implicated officer. The complainant was not afforded a chance to present his case or provide evidence. He must now be allowed to substantiate the allegations,” the court stated.
Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and MLA Sunny Joseph emphasized that the judgment serves as a serious warning to the Chief Minister.
“This ruling reveals intentional efforts by the Home Department to shield the ADGP. Given that the Chief Minister also oversees the Vigilance portfolio, he should resign as Home Minister,” Joseph insisted.
The court noted a “deliberate effort” to protect Ajith Kumar, referencing his communications with former Nilambur MLA P.V. Anvar, who initially raised concerns about the officer’s “unholy nexus” and “questionable activities.”
Joseph alleged that these discussions were conducted under directives from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), casting doubt on the CMO itself.
The KPCC chief detailed accusations against Ajith Kumar, including ties to RSS leaders, involvement in the Thrissur Pooram fireworks controversy, gold smuggling, and the accumulation of illicit wealth. He called for an independent agency to carry out a fair investigation.
Meanwhile, Ajith Kumar’s remarks to the Vigilance, which emerged on Friday, confirmed his meeting with Anvar at a friend’s residence to “address doubts” raised by the MLA. He claimed that the allegations were part of a conspiracy by certain police officers who fabricated documents to discredit him.
Ajith Kumar asserted that Anvar targeted him because he refused to comply with specific demands and denied any wrongdoing regarding a flat resale. He mentioned that his house was built on land given to him by his father-in-law.
Point of View
We recognize the gravity of the situation in Kerala, where allegations of misconduct are deeply intertwined with the political landscape. With the Vigilance Court's findings, it is crucial for both the government and opposition to uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring that the rule of law prevails in all circumstances.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the political controversy in Kerala?
The controversy began with the Vigilance Court rejecting the clean chit for ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar in a disproportionate assets case, leading to calls for CM Vijayan to resign from the Home portfolio.
What did the court say about the enquiry conducted by VACB?
The court criticized the enquiry for not following Supreme Court guidelines, stating it was conducted to protect the officer rather than investigate the allegations properly.
Who is Sunny Joseph and what is his stance?
Sunny Joseph is the president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee and he has called the court ruling a warning to CM Vijayan, demanding his resignation from the Home portfolio.
What are the allegations against Ajith Kumar?
Ajith Kumar faces allegations including connections with RSS leaders, involvement in the Thrissur Pooram fireworks incident, gold smuggling, and amassing illicit wealth.
What does Ajith Kumar say about the allegations?
Ajith Kumar claims the allegations are part of a conspiracy against him by certain police officers and denies any wrongdoing related to the accusations.
