Thiruvananthapuram, August 19: In light of the escalating investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) into the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment case, former Kerala minister P.A. Mohammad Riyas has broken his silence, delivering a robust political and legal rebuttal. He dismissed the allegations against his wife, Veena T., labeling them as attempts to divert attention from the ED’s raids on his old friends in Kozhikode.
This marks Riyas’s first detailed response following the ED’s actions against his close associates. His statement comes amid reports of extensive questioning of Veena by the agency.
Riyas firmly rejected the allegations, asserting that Veena’s business operations are entirely legitimate. He challenged anyone questioning her credibility to review her election nomination papers.
He stated, “A new narrative is being spun that Veena started a firm, which is untrue. Anyone can examine my nomination papers; everything is documented there.”
Emphasizing Veena’s independence, Riyas insisted that no one can prevent her from conducting business.
He characterized the allegations as baseless, declaring his intention to confront them both legally and politically.
These remarks are significant as the ED has recently shifted its focus to several of Riyas’s old friends and associates in Kozhikode.
Riyas noted, “Raids are now being conducted at my old friends’ places. Anyone can inquire about their character. I have known them for a long time. Everyone in Kozhikode is aware of their business. These raids are being used as a distraction.”
He also launched a direct attack on the central government, accusing it of using the ED as a political weapon.
Riyas remarked, “Everyone knows how the BJP government utilizes the ED. No one should assume that their relationships with friends will be affected just because their premises were searched.”
He affirmed that he and the CPI(M) have decided to confront these allegations and stressed that they will not back down.
“Don’t think we will be intimidated,” he asserted.
The former minister further elaborated on his wife’s professional background, stating that Veena is highly capable and has held senior positions in several companies before venturing into consultancy and business.
He concluded, “Nothing wrong has occurred. Let the case proceed; we will manage it.”
Following multiple searches in Kozhikode on Tuesday, the ED is reportedly investigating financial transactions linked to Veena, Riyas, and their close associates.
The agency is examining documents and digital evidence seized during the raids and is also probing alleged transactions related to the advertising company ‘Solus,’ associated with CPI(M) district secretary P. Nikhil.
Riyas indicated that he will no longer respond to every media inquiry but will allow the investigation to unfold. He mentioned that he has sought advice from legal experts and intends to fight this matter through legal and political avenues.
“I strongly oppose the party ruling the country. I will continue my political journey,” Riyas stated.
The ED’s investigation comes at a politically sensitive time for Riyas. His rapid ascent within the CPI(M) following his marriage to Veena, securing a party ticket for the 2021 assembly elections, and later holding key cabinet positions in Public Works and Tourism, has already caused unease within certain factions of the party.
As the investigation targets his close associates, it is anticipated that this issue will gain further political significance at the upcoming extended meeting of the CPI(M) state committee in Kozhikode next month.
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