Let The Law Test The Ex-Chief Minister Of Keralam

Former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan once told investigators that only those with ill-gotten wealth had reason to fear central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Vijayan's remarks were intended to deflect blame from himself, his daughter Veena T., her company Exalogic Solutions, and his son-in-law, former minister Mohammed Riyas.

The tables have now turned, as the ED has submitted a report to the Kerala Director General of Police proposing the registration of an FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act against the trio. Specific allegations against Vijayan, his daughter, and his son-in-law include the payment of Rs 2.78 crore to Exalogic for non-existent services, Rs 3.28 crore received unlawfully through Veena T., and Riyas' role in facilitating the money transfer to Dubai.

These accusations carry significant weight and could potentially involve bribery and money laundering. The V.D. Satheesan government now faces a challenging decision on whether to register the FIR, and the decision must be based on impartial application of the law rather than political considerations or retaliation against the previous administration.

The CPI(M) has vehemently rejected the allegations and accused the center of abusing investigative agencies, drawing parallels to the treatment of opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal. However, even if there are instances of improper behavior by investigative agencies, the response should be judicial scrutiny, parliamentary accountability, and public criticism, not obstructing the agencies' work.

Vijayan and his family have the chance to refute the accusations, while the government must maintain its commitment to the rule of law and resist both intimidation and temptation.