Kerala CM V D Satheesan says High Court cleared way for ED probe against Veena Vijayan
Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan said that the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) investigation involving Veena Vijayan was enabled by court orders and that the state government has no role in directing or influencing the probe.
Addressing a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Satheesan said the legal process began after mining firm Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd approached the courts seeking to halt the investigation. However, both the petition and subsequent appeal were dismissed, allowing the ED probe to proceed.
“The High Court paved the way for the investigation. The government cannot dictate how the ED conducts its probe,” the chief minister said while responding to questions regarding the money laundering investigation linked to Veena Vijayan’s now-defunct firm, Exalogic.
The ED has summoned Veena Vijayan and officials of CMRL for questioning in connection with alleged financial transactions between the company and Exalogic. Officials said Veena has been asked to appear before the agency on June 12, where her statement will be recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Satheesan also stressed that the law must be allowed to take its course and warned against any attempts to disrupt public order. Referring to recent incidents involving ED officials, he said strict action would be taken against anyone trying to obstruct the investigation.
Commenting on internal discussions within the CPI(M) following the party’s electoral setback, Satheesan claimed that district-level review meetings had witnessed criticism of senior party leaders and their political strategy. He rejected allegations of any understanding between the UDF and BJP, asserting that electoral data showed significant vote shifts in key constituencies.
On allegations regarding his alleged links with industrialist Gautam Adani, Satheesan dismissed the claims and said there was no connection between him and the business conglomerate.
The chief minister also addressed the ongoing Munambam land dispute, saying discussions with all stakeholders are underway and that a decision would be taken only after consultations are completed.
The dispute involves residents of Munambam and the Kerala State Waqf Board over claims regarding the ownership status of land occupied by hundreds of families for decades.
The ED investigation into the alleged financial dealings between CMRL and Exalogic continues, with further developments expected following the questioning of key individuals in the case.
