Whistleblower Challenges CM Vijayan Over Abraham's CBI Investigation
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Synopsis
A whistleblower has warned Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan against pursuing a probe requested by K.M. Abraham, who is under investigation by the CBI. Jemon Puthenpurackal argues any state-led inquiry would be illegal, complicating the political landscape as calls for Abraham's resignation grow amidst ongoing legal challenges.
Key Takeaways
- K.M. Abraham requests a probe into allegations against Jemon Puthenpurackal.
- The Kerala High Court has ordered a CBI investigation into Abraham’s wealth.
- Activist Puthenpurackal cautions against a state-led investigation.
- CM Vijayan signals a potential shift in his stance.
- Legal ramifications are growing as CBI prepares to act.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 19 (NationPress) Following a letter from K.M. Abraham, Chief Principal Secretary to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and former Chief Secretary, demanding an inquiry into an alleged conspiracy by public activist Jemon Puthenpurackal and two others, the whistleblower has responded, warning Vijayan against complying with such a request.
In his communication to the Chief Minister on Saturday, Puthenpurackal highlighted that the Kerala High Court had already mandated a CBI investigation into Abraham's suspected accumulation of wealth, pursuant to his petition. He contended that any additional inquiry initiated by the state government, as requested by Abraham, would be deemed "illegal and procedurally flawed."
Last week, the Kerala High Court ordered a CBI investigation into Abraham following a nearly decade-long legal struggle led by Puthenpurackal.
As calls for his resignation intensify, Abraham, currently the CEO of the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), addressed rumors in his Vishu message to KIIFB employees, stating he would leave the decision regarding his future to the Chief Minister.
CM Vijayan, who previously held a firm position that no official would be dismissed based solely on allegations, appeared to soften his stance. In response to the court-ordered investigation against his trusted aide, Vijayan remarked that Abraham also has "grievances" and is exploring legal avenues—suggesting he may not act promptly.
In turn, Puthenpurackal warned the Chief Minister against yielding to Abraham's appeal, labeling it an attempt to undermine or obstruct the CBI investigation. "This is a cover-up maneuver," the activist claimed.
Abraham, aged 66, retired as Chief Secretary in 2017 and has since been one of Vijayan's closest advisors. Now faced with letters from both Abraham and Puthenpurackal, the Chief Minister finds himself at the heart of a political and legal upheaval, even as CBI agents are expected to soon issue a notice to Abraham, who is likely to petition a division bench of the High Court or the Supreme Court to annul the High Court's single bench ruling.
