Kochi, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : The Kerala High Court expressed its frustration on Friday regarding the state government’s delays in granting approval to prosecute individuals involved in the SNDP microfinance fraud case. Justice A. Badaruddeen questioned whether these repeated lapses were intentional, aimed at delaying the legal proceedings.
The additional chief secretary of the backward classes development department appeared in court, stating that she had only received the case files on Thursday. This prompted a stern response from the judge, who was visibly upset by the situation.
Last month, the court had already directed that the matter of prosecutorial approval be addressed. However, the special public prosecutor from the vigilance department cited a communication gap as the reason for the late submission of the files to the additional chief secretary.
The court was informed that the files had now been forwarded to the relevant authorities, with action expected to be taken within a week. Justice Badaruddeen made it clear that the government could no longer use the excuse of not receiving the files as a reason for the delays. He ordered that a decision be reached before the next hearing on September 18.
The court warned that if the order was not submitted, the chief secretary would be required to appear in person. The judge also took issue with the state’s explanation that the delays were merely mistakes. While acknowledging that errors can occur, he emphasized that repeated failures could indicate a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice.
The court raised concerns about the selective approach of the prosecution, questioning why some accused individuals were seemingly being shielded while others faced action due to strained relations with the government. Justice Badaruddeen stated that such biased behavior is unacceptable, especially in cases involving serious crimes committed by public officials. He warned that this matter would be treated with the utmost seriousness.
The case revolves around irregularities linked to the microfinance scheme associated with the SNDP Yogam. The vigilance and anti-corruption bureau have filed multiple cases against SNDP officials, including General Secretary Vellapally Natesan and the former managing director of the Kerala State Backward Classes Development Corporation.
The High Court is hearing two petitions filed in 2020, which call for the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a competent officer to investigate these matters. The next hearing is scheduled for September 18.
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