Did Former Kerala Police Chief Accuse Finance Minister of Oath Violation?
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Synopsis
In a striking video statement, former Kerala Police Chief T.P. Senkumar has leveled serious accusations against Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, claiming he obstructed an investigation linked to journalist Siddique Kappan. This revelation raises substantial concerns about accountability and transparency in the state's financial dealings.
Key Takeaways
- T.P. Senkumar has accused Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal of oath violation.
- Allegations involve suppression of an investigation into financial irregularities.
- Government sanctioned Rs 25 lakh for a Press Club office.
- Funds allegedly misused before Kappan's arrest.
- Investigation findings prompted further scrutiny by authorities.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 24 (NationPress) In a powerful video posted on social media, former Kerala Police Chief T.P. Senkumar has accused the state's Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal of breaching his oath of office by allegedly obstructing an investigation into financial misconduct involving journalist Siddique Kappan and others.
Senkumar claims to possess comprehensive information regarding this violation.
He further stated that the government had allocated Rs 25 lakh to the Delhi branch of the Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) for establishing a Press Club office in Delhi, during the time when Kappan served as the Union's Secretary.
The alleged misappropriation is said to have occurred before Kappan's arrest by the Uttar Pradesh Police under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in October 2020.
An investigation conducted by the Information and Public Relations Department Deputy Director in New Delhi revealed that the funds were not utilized for their intended purpose.
Instead, a portion of the funds was reportedly redirected to personal accounts, including Rs 45,000 taken directly by Kappan, as indicated by bank documents.
The report also highlighted that part of the government grant was placed in fixed deposits to earn interest, with no accompanying bills or receipts available.
In light of these findings, the Information and Public Relations Department Inspection and Monitoring Committee confirmed the irregularities, forwarding the matter for further investigation.
A subsequent audit by the Accountant General revealed significant lapses in the utilization of funds by Press Clubs, leading Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to mandate an inquiry by the Finance Department's Inspection Wing.
In September 2022, the Inspection Wing submitted an extensive report in March 2023 detailing severe financial misconduct.
Senkumar alleges that at this point, Finance Minister Balagopal intervened, requesting the investigation file and burying it instead of passing it on to the Vigilance and the Information and Public Relations Department for further proceedings.
He claims that the Minister's actions were intended to protect the journalists involved, leaving officials from the Finance Department in a legally precarious position.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the allegations made by T.P. Senkumar with a balanced perspective. While the accusations against K.N. Balagopal are serious, it remains essential to await further investigations and official responses. The integrity of public office and transparency in governance are paramount, and any violation must be thoroughly examined to uphold public trust.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did T.P. Senkumar make against K.N. Balagopal?
T.P. Senkumar accused K.N. Balagopal of violating his oath of office by allegedly suppressing an investigation into financial irregularities related to journalist Siddique Kappan.
What was the amount sanctioned to the Kerala Union of Working Journalists?
The state government sanctioned Rs 25 lakh to the Delhi chapter of the Kerala Union of Working Journalists for constructing a Press Club office.
What were the findings of the investigation conducted by the Information and Public Relations Department?
The investigation found that the sanctioned funds were not used for their intended purpose, with allegations of money being diverted to personal accounts.
What actions were taken following the audit by the Accountant General?
The audit uncovered serious lapses in fund utilization, prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to order an investigation by the Finance Department's Inspection Wing.
What did Senkumar claim about Balagopal's intervention?
Senkumar alleged that Balagopal intervened to bury the investigation file instead of forwarding it for further action.
