CPI(M) Accuses ED and Kerala CM of Targeting Party in CMRL-Exalogic Case

Thiruvananthapuram, September 25 (Daily Kiran) : CPI(M) State Secretary M.V. Govindan has alleged that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan are attempting to target the CPI(M) in the ongoing CMRL-Exalogic case, claiming support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His comments came as the state police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) began the process of obtaining additional documents and evidence from the central agency.

Govindan stated, “The ED and Satheesan are trying to entangle CPI(M) in baseless cases with the Prime Minister’s backing. We are confident that there is no evidence against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Instead, unfounded allegations regarding the CMRL-Exalogic case are being spread. We will confront this both legally and politically; nothing will harm us.”

This statement follows the initiation of an inquiry by the state police into the materials provided by the ED. The police chief has directed the SIT, formed under the Crime Branch, to gather further information and documents from the ED before deciding on the next steps. The Superintendent leading the investigation has been tasked with coordinating with the central agency to collect relevant evidence.

After a thorough examination of the gathered materials, an initial report will be submitted to the police chief. Thus far, the police have not registered an FIR. The decision to file a case will depend on the preliminary evidence review and legal advice.

The questioning of key figures, including Pinarayi Vijayan, former minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, his wife T. Veena, and others, will also hinge on the results of this preliminary investigation. The ED’s correspondence mentions several individuals whose financial transactions are under scrutiny by the police. The SIT is also investigating the roles of at least five individuals based in Kozhikode, identified in the ED’s letter as having connections to Riyas.

The investigation will involve senior officials and employees of CMRL, focusing on financial transactions related to the company. The ED has alleged illegal payments and questionable unauthorized financial dealings, including accusations of fund transfers abroad.

Under the preliminary investigation, police are examining bank accounts, financial records, and digital evidence. The Cyber Investigation Team will assist the SIT in analyzing digital and technical evidence.

While the CPI(M) has mounted a political defense, the police investigation has introduced a new legal dimension to the controversy. Govindan has made it clear that the party will address these allegations both politically and legally.

In September 2026, the Kerala government established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate corruption allegations against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his family in the high-profile CMRL-Exalogic bribery case.