Why Did Kerala's CM Vijayan Appoint Antony Raju as Minister?
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Synopsis
In a recent political upheaval, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for appointing Antony Raju as a minister, despite the latter's conviction in a serious thondimuthal tampering case. This incident raises questions about the government's commitment to justice and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- V.D. Satheesan criticized Kerala's CM for appointing a convicted minister.
- Antony Raju was sentenced to three years in prison for tampering with evidence.
- The case involves serious allegations related to narcotics smuggling.
- Opposition claims the government protects accused persons.
- Raju's conviction disqualifies him from future elections.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, sharply criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) on Saturday after the conviction of former minister and current legislator Antony Raju in the thondimuthal (material evidence) tampering case. He accused the government of continuously acting to shield those facing serious allegations.
Antony Raju held the position of State Transport Minister from May 2021 until December 2024, resigning to allow K.B. Ganesh Kumar to take over.
On Saturday evening, the Nedumangad Judicial First Class Magistrate Court sentenced him to three years in prison for tampering with evidence.
Satheesan mentioned that the Opposition had previously cautioned in the Assembly that Antony Raju, being an accused in a serious criminal case, should not have been appointed as a minister.
“Despite knowing that Antony Raju was implicated in a serious crime, Pinarayi Vijayan proceeded to appoint him as a minister,” Satheesan expressed.
He labeled the case as highly serious, highlighting that it involved the manipulation of crucial evidence to aid a foreign national arrested for smuggling narcotics hidden in his underwear.
According to Satheesan, the underwear used as evidence was illegally removed from court custody, altered, and tampered with in a scheme to mislead the court.
“It is shocking that someone charged with such a serious crime was allowed to remain a minister for two and a half years, even after strong objections from the Opposition,” he stated.
He further pointed out that the subsequent case regarding the destruction of evidence was only initiated after the court expressed doubts following the acquittal of the foreign accused.
“The LDF and the CPI(M) have continually protected the accused, and they continue to do so,” Satheesan alleged.
He also accused the CPI(M) of shielding accused individuals currently incarcerated in the Sabarimala gold smuggling case, asserting that the recent verdict reaffirms that the government acts as a protective shield for those involved in corruption and crime.
Earlier that day, Antony Raju was found guilty, and the sentence was announced later in the evening.
However, the court granted bail to the two accused, allowing them a month to appeal to higher courts if they wish.
With a sentence exceeding two years, Antony Raju is disqualified from the Kerala Legislative Assembly and barred from future elections, per established Supreme Court rulings.
Even if a higher court grants a stay on the sentence, the disqualification will remain unless the conviction itself is overturned.
Point of View
I recognize the seriousness of the allegations against Antony Raju and the implications of his continued ministerial role. The situation demands accountability from political leaders, emphasizing the need for transparent governance in Kerala. The opposition's concerns highlight the delicate balance between politics and justice, which should always prioritize the rule of law.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the conviction against Antony Raju?
Antony Raju was convicted for his involvement in tampering with material evidence related to a serious criminal case.
What did V.D. Satheesan accuse the government of?
V.D. Satheesan accused the government of protecting those accused of serious crimes, particularly in the case of Antony Raju.
What is the significance of the thondimuthal case?
The thondimuthal case involves manipulation of evidence that assisted a foreign national in evading punishment for drug smuggling.
What are the implications of Raju's conviction?
With a sentence exceeding two years, Antony Raju is disqualified from the Kerala Legislative Assembly and barred from future elections.
How has this affected the political landscape in Kerala?
This incident has raised serious questions about accountability and justice within the ruling government in Kerala.
