The Karnataka High Court’s ruling on Friday saw the petition filed by Exalogic Solutions, contesting the probe by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), being dismissed. Both the Congress and the BJP in Kerala have extended their support to the Court’s decision to dismiss a petition challenging the investigation into a firm owned by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter, Veena T.
The court’s ruling on Friday saw the petition filed by Exalogic Solutions, contesting the probe by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), being dismissed. While Congress leaders asserted that the firm’s move to approach the high court indicated Vijayan’s apprehension about the investigation, the BJP welcomed the order, emphasizing that it refuted claims by the ruling CPI(M) of political motivation behind the probe.
Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan stated that the court was unconvinced by arguments suggesting political bias in the SFIO probe. Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar echoed this sentiment, highlighting allegations against Exalogic of receiving substantial sums without providing services, thereby justifying the investigation.
Leader of Opposition in the State Assembly V D Satheesan interpreted the plea as an indicator of fear on the part of the CM and his daughter regarding the SFIO investigation, insinuating potential wrongdoing. Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan, who initially raised concerns about financial irregularities, viewed the court’s decision as expected and questioned the CPI(M)’s stance on the matter.
The duration of the SFIO probe, set at eight months, raised skepticism among critics, including Satheesan, who questioned the necessity for such an extended period. However, they affirmed their readiness to observe the developments.
This follows a recent decision by the Kerala High Court to reject a stay on the SFIO probe into state entities, including KSIDC and Exalogic, in response to a plea by KSIDC. The controversy emerged after allegations surfaced regarding payments made by CMRL, leading to scrutiny of Veena’s firm and allegations of financial impropriety.
The report cited findings by the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and alleged irregularities in payments made to Veena’s firm, stirring political debate in Kerala.
Read More:
