CPI(M), LDF Reject ED Allegations, Vow Political and Legal Fight

CPI(M) MLA P A Muhammad Riyas on Thursday rejected allegations reportedly emerging from the Enforcement Directorate’s probe into the CMRL money-laundering case, calling the claims fabricated and saying he would fight the matter legally.

Riyas’ response came after the ED sought registration of an FIR against Kerala Assembly Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena T, Riyas and others in connection with the alleged Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) bribery case.

The ED’s request to Kerala DGP Ravada A Chandrasekhar was based on evidence gathered during its investigation and searches conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), according to reports.

Riyas, who served as tourism minister in the previous LDF government and is Vijayan’s son-in-law, rejected reports that Veena had admitted the allegations before the ED. He described such reports as false and said he would contest the matter through legal means.

The ED has alleged that CMRL made fraudulent payments of ₹2.78 crore to Veena’s now-defunct company, Exalogic Solutions, under the guise of IT consultancy services. The agency had earlier searched premises linked to Veena in May and subsequently questioned her.

Meanwhile, LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan said the CPI(M) and the Left Front would deal with the issue both politically and legally.

Ramakrishnan said no court or investigating agency had so far established that any wrongdoing had taken place. He alleged that the developments were aimed at creating suspicion among the public and weakening the CPI(M) and the Left.

Responding to allegations concerning alleged illegal accumulation and transfer of ₹20 crore, Ramakrishnan said authorities could take action if the allegations were genuine and supported by evidence. He maintained that Riyas and other CPI(M) leaders had not committed any wrongdoing.

Ramakrishnan also questioned the Congress’ position on the ED and its response to the developments in Kerala. He said the CPI(M) and LDF would continue to present their position on the matter politically and legally.