Thiruvananthapuram, July 24: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Kerala has compensated a taxi driver following an incident where CPI-M workers vandalized his vehicle during a protest against a raid on opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan’s residence.
The driver, a resident of Thiruvananthapuram, received approximately ₹1.75 lakh as full compensation for the damage inflicted on the taxi, which was hired for official purposes by the ED.
This incident occurred in May when the ED team was leaving Vijayan’s home after conducting a search related to an ongoing investigation involving his daughter, Veena Vijayan, who was residing at the rented property under ED scrutiny.
As the ED officials exited the premises, CPI-M workers allegedly surrounded their convoy and attacked the vehicles. The taxi hired by the ED was caught in the violence and was severely damaged.
The driver stated that he was merely fulfilling his professional duty and had no involvement in the investigation. He found himself caught in a politically sensitive confrontation.
The incident drew widespread condemnation, and the CPI initially announced that they would compensate the driver for his losses. However, despite public assurances, the party later reneged on its promise, forcing the driver to seek compensation for the damage to his sole source of livelihood.
The ED has now intervened, settling the entire claim and providing relief to the driver after nearly two months of uncertainty.
Significant developments have also occurred in the criminal case related to this attack. Police have arrested 25 individuals in connection with the violence. So far, only one suspect has been granted bail, while the remaining 24 are in judicial custody, reflecting the seriousness with which the courts are treating the charges.
The decision to compensate the driver has been viewed as an unusual step by the central investigative agency. Politically, this incident may further amplify criticisms against the CPI-M. Opponents are questioning why the agency, which the party protested against, ultimately assisted the driver while the party failed to fulfill its promise.
–
Leave a Comment