ED letter for FIR against Vijayan will be legally scrutinised: CM
Thiruvananthapuram: Keralam Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Wednesday, September 9, said that the ED letter for registration of an FIR against senior CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan and others, in connection with the alleged CMRL bribery case will be scrutinised legally and thereafter, steps in accordance with law will be taken. Satheesan, at a press Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
A Kerala man who paid 5,800 for a 90-day M4 Marry.com subscription after struggling to find a marriage match had his account blocked before the service ended. The Kasaragod consumer commission found the termination was done without proper enquiry and ordered the company to refund 4,000 and pay 5,000 in litigation costs.
Raashii Khanna recalls a fun dance moment with Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan on his birthday
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS) Actress Raashii Khanna marked Akshay Kumars birthday by sharing a fun dance moment featuring the actor and Vidya Balan. Alongside the video, she penned a warm birthday note for Akshay, praising his ability to make those around him work hard while also keeping the atmosphere light and full of laughter. Sharing a video, the Madras Caf actress wrote, Heres to the man who makes everyone around him work hard and laugh harder. More dance, more mischief, more you. Happy birthday, Achche Sir! @akshaykumar. In the video, Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, and Raashii Khanna can be seen dancing together and enjoying a fun-filled moment. With a private helicopter visible in the background, Khiladi Kumar flaunted his uber-cool dance moves, adding to the fun and lively vibe of the video. The trio is set to share the screen in an upcoming family comedy directed by Anees Bazmee. The untitled project also marks Akshays reunion with Vidya Balan and his return to Bazmees direction after 15 years. Akshay recently wrapped up the Kerala schedule of the film and shared a picture from the sets featuring Vidya and Raashii, giving a glimpse of the upcoming entertainer. Alongside it, the Kesari actor had written, Keralam schedule wrapped! Nothing beats working with good people in a beautiful place. Big love to our director Anees Bazmee for the madness behind the camera and to my incredible co-stars Vidya & Raashii and the entire crew! This ones been special (sic). In April, Akshay Kumar had shared his first glimpse of the teams journey to Kerala for the film. He posted a video of himself boarding an aircraft with Vidya Balan as they headed to the state for the shoot. In the clip, the actors were seen walking hand in hand, with Akshay helping Vidya board the plane. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar turned 59 on September 9 and received heartwarming birthday wishes from his family, friends, and colleagues on social media.
Kerala CM VD Satheesan denies discussing PM-SHRI scheme with Rahul Gandhi
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Govt will act as per law on ED communication against Pinarayi Vijayan: CM Satheesan
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 9 (IANS) Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Wednesday said the government would examine the Enforcement Directorate's communication to the State Police Chief in the CMRL-Exalogic case and take a decision in accordance with the law. The ED has forwarded its findings and supporting documents to the Kerala State Police Chief under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), seeking registration of a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act and other applicable laws against former Chief Minister and Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena, and son-in-law P.A. Mohammed Riyas, among others. Reacting to the development, Satheesan said the government would take a decision only after a legal examination of the material sent by the ED. This is not a political issue. The law will take its own course, he said, adding that the ED had forwarded material in more than one case and stressed the need for the government to examine the evidence before taking a decision. The Chief Minister also criticised the CPI(M)'s reaction to the ED's move, saying it was natural for the party to defend its leaders but described developments within the party as strange. Drawing a contrast with the Congress's approach when its leaders faced ED scrutiny, Satheesan said Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi had cooperated with the agency and undergone prolonged questioning, while Congress workers had not attacked ED officials. On the PM SHRI scheme, he said a Cabinet sub-committee was examining the issue and would take a decision in due course. He alleged that a committee constituted by the previous LDF government on the matter had not met for seven months. Defending his government's record on appointments to ministers' personal staff, Satheesan said the present administration had 476 personal staff members compared with 787 during the previous government headed by Pinarayi Vijayan. He said no minister in the current Cabinet had appointed more than 25 personal staff members and several had fewer than that number. Reiterating the government's position, the Chief Minister said all decisions on the matter would be guided by legal procedures rather than political considerations.
ED invokes PMLA in attack on officials at Vijayan residence, piles pressure on CPI(M)
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 9 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has widened its probe into the alleged attack on its officials during a search operation at the private residence of Kerala Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan by registering a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), bringing the CPI(M) and its leaders under fresh scrutiny. The central agency suspects that the attack may have involved a financial trail and plans to include all those named in the attempt-to-murder case registered by the Kerala Police and the Crime Branch in its PMLA investigation. According to sources, the ED is examining whether individuals were mobilised for the attack using funds allegedly received from persons or companies under investigation. It will also probe whether any financial assistance was provided to the accused and whether such transactions constitute proceeds of crime under the anti-money laundering law. The agency is further expected to investigate the alleged conspiracy behind the incident, including the role of political leaders who were present at the spot. Invoking the PMLA in a case linked to an alleged attack on officials is considered an unusual step and is likely to significantly widen the scope of the investigation. The move comes as the police prepare to file the first charge sheet in the case. The investigation team led by Cantonment ACP Jayachandran has named 28 CPI(M), DYFI and SFI functionaries as accused. However, reports suggest that the initial charge sheet does not extensively address the alleged political conspiracy behind the incident. The incident dates back to the last week of May, when an ED team arrived at Vijayan's residence as part of its probe into the monthly-payment case involving his daughter, T. Veena. The officials were allegedly attacked and their vehicle damaged after party activists gathered outside the residence to obstruct the search operation. The latest development also comes amid the ED's earlier demand for action under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Vijayan, Veena and former minister Mohammed Riyas in connection with the monthly-payment case. The agency had alleged that payments worth several crores were made by CMRL. With the ED pursuing both the monthly-payment allegations and the alleged attack on its officials, the CPI(M) is now facing scrutiny on two parallel fronts.
Rare wheel-like stone unearthed at Megalithic burial site in Keralams Kannur
Further investigation, detailed documentation, and contextual analysis would be necessary to determine the function and significance of the stone and whether it was directly associated with the Megalithic burial assemblage, says archaeologist
Wont Bow to Paper Tiger: CPI(M) Hits Back at ED Over Charges Against Pinarayi
Govindan rejected the recent central agency actions, asserting that such fabricated claims will find no traction in Kerala
Father wins Rs 22,500 after courier company fails to deliver babys diapers
A Kerala consumer commission ordered Xpressbees to pay compensation for failing to deliver diapers. The consumer ordered diapers from FirstCry, which were dispatched promptly. Repeated delivery failures and incorrect status updates led to the order cancellation. Xpressbees failed to provide evidence of delivery attempts or customer refusal. The commission found deficiency in service and directed payment of compensation and litigation costs.
Keralam heat puts power grid under pressure as demand soars
Kerala's power grid faced significant strain due to lingering September heat and increased demand. Higher reliance on cooling appliances pushed electricity consumption beyond available supply. Partial power restrictions were imposed across Kerala during peak evening hours. This situation mirrored a nationwide power availability shortage affecting many regions. Above-normal temperatures and weak rainfall continue to concern the state's power management.
When Nivin Pauly's house was submerged in 2018 floods
Mollywood star Nivin Pauly celebrates his film's success and discusses past challenges. His childhood home in Aluva was submerged during the devastating 2018 Kerala floods. He later renovated the property using traditional teak wood sourced from Nilambur. Pauly also explained his recent absence from public events due to personal difficulties. He promised to return with great films and thanked his supporters for their love.
Kannur Mayor files police complaint against alleged irregularities in issuing building permit
The alleged irregularities came to light after a Chalad native applied online for building number for a structure near Payyambalam for opening a restaurant
Malayalam varsity student Anagha Sasi ends strike
The university agrees to convene a doctoral committee meeting, provide the academic facilities required for her research, and take legal action on her complaints
Key accused in Malappuram morphing case arrested
The accused, Subin Babu, 26, from Thiruvananthapuram, admitted during interrogation that he had collected photographs of female students from Instagram, morphed them, and circulated the altered images
MVD slaps penalty of 6.04 lakh on trucks for overloading in Keralams Ernakulam
Penalty was imposed on erring vehicles for use of air horns, illegal modification, carrying dangerously protruding goods, and display of advertisements in violation of rules
Shamsudheen returns to alma mater, calls for colleges to become cultural centres
Expand Keralams tax base to tap economic potential: M.A. Oommen
At conference on GST reforms, Transport Minister C.P. John stresses need to improve GST collection and strengthen mechanisms to detect tax evasion
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Football in Kerala is deeply rooted in the state's culture. For decades, the fans of the state throng the stadiums, stick to their TV screens and dive into the euphoria of the beautiful sport. With the Super League Kerala set to enter its third season, the organisers feel that the league has all that it takes to further transcend the emotions of the fans and fuel the love more. Speaking exclusively to IANS, the league's CEO and Director Mathew Joseph detailed how the SLK has been working 365 days for a tournament which is only two and a half months long and how they have been working behind the scenes for the success that glares on the screens. The league has caught the eyeballs after the first two seasons, and with the deeply rooted culture of football in Kerala, it only promises to get better and better. We finished season 1 in 2024 and then season 2 last year. And the jump between the first season and the second was huge in terms of the spectators as well as in terms of all the participants and the aspirants to actually be a part of this league. So we could see that huge level of interest which came in, Mathew told IANS. Now we've been constantly putting in a lot of efforts on the grassroots as well as on the other side, putting up reasonably good games. We are trying to bring in a good quality of game here, wherein our local talent also gets a chance, he added. The league might run for two and a half months, but Mathew highlighted that the work behind the tournament and scouting remains a 365-day thing. He revealed how the league introduced a grassroots programme called the Game Changer Project and a special tie-up with Spanish legend and former footballer Andres Iniesta in the scouting work. And that (finding grassroots players) doesn't just come by holding the league, because our intervention into society and the people and the players is 365 days. So, I don't know if you're aware of it, we do close to about 2000 matches in a year, you know, which is not a small number. I think we are one state which can proudly say that we are engaged with the people 365 days a year. We just don't do a league and disappear and then come back for three or four months. The work goes much beyond the tournament and extends to holding matches at small levels to find more talent, Mathew emphasised. So we do close to about 2000 odd matches, okay, which also includes about 200 matches of Kerala Premier League, which is also another property which we hold. Apart from that, the university-level matches, the college-level matches. So a lot of that happens. We do scouting round the year with all these tournaments that happen. And we have a structured scouting, which is called the programme game changer. So we started with Andres Iniesta, who is one of the world's well-known footballers, a Spanish player who played in the World Cup twice. So, we tied up with Iniesta, and we had the first session (Game Changer project) with him. And with those learnings, we've rolled out the project Game Changer for the next two years. Following their collaboration with Iniesta, the League is also taking inputs from the German football association, the DFB. And (from) second year onwards, we have rolled out our own programme taking into account all the best practises. Also taking inputs from the German Football Association because we are tied up with DFB, he added. Meanwhile, the League Director also stated that the league is setting up a Centre of Excellence, through which hundreds of talents will be trained. Each of our club has been involved in academies. And Super League Kerala is also setting up a Centre of Excellence, where in about 200 talents every year will be taken into the Centre of Excellence. And from there on, we give them further training with the residential academics mixed together. The League has six teams with matches taking place at home and away bases before the semifinals kick in. This time, however, the league has brought in a couple of notable changes that might fascinate the fans even more. One is to hold penalty shootouts for even tied group stage games to break the deadlocks, and the other is two-legged semifinals, at home and away bases, similar to what is seen in the Champions League knockouts. So, this year, what we are looking at is a penalty shootout. And at the end of the (league) game, there will be a definitive winner. So, that is rule number one, which we are implementing. This is accepted by FIFA and the All India Football Federation. We have taken the approvals for that. So, I think for the first time in the country, we will have a league which has implemented a penalty shootout at the end of the match. We are also going to have a home and away, leg 1 and leg 2 of the semifinals. So, that is the first time we are introducing this thing. So, earlier we had two semifinals and the final. This year, what we are doing is there will be the first leg of the semifinal. And the same team will go and play against the opposite team on their home turf. So, they get two chances, Mathew said. But with the changes, there should be another important addition to the target, and that is to expand the teams. Mathew said that they are in the process of adding teams, but want a team from a region which has a stadium of decent capacity to enthral the fans and give them matches to watch. Yes, we are currently in the process of talking to two more teams. We should have two new teams introduced by next year. We were trying to do it this year. But the infrastructure requirements will not be met. So that we have a decent enough stadium, he said. The seating capacities in the current stadium are over 15,000 at every venue, with the Calicut Stadium holding 40,000 people. Mathew said that they would want a team which has a stadium size of at least 15,000 and are open to have only one team if the other does not meet the criteria. So, we are looking at two teams which will have a stadium size of at least 15,000 plus. Because otherwise it becomes small for us to host a game. So, by next year we will have two teams. (But) If we are able to do one team, one good venue, we will go for one. Because we don't want to have a team without a home stadium. That is a must. That is mandatory for a team. Otherwise, there is no fun for the home fans, he added. Mathew also provided a roadmap for the future of the league, stating that they have a 10-year roadmap and if all pieces fall into place, then here is no limit to the growth. We have made a 10-year plan roadmap, and things really look good with the support of the government and the federation. So, I am assuming that the government supports it, which the Kerala government has always been very supportive of, and even with the new government coming in, they have come up with many plans to support and take this thing quite forward. So, I see that there is a huge amount of interest anyways in Kerala. And if we are able to put all the pieces together in a structured manner, I think there is no limit to it. And one good thing is that we have never treated this as a regional league. We have always looked at it from a nation's point of view. He highlighted that they always intend to cater to Indian fans all around the world, with broadcasting across lengths and breadths available. That is the reason why we have always worked with a national broadcasting channel like Star Sports or Hotstar in year one. We worked with Doordarshan, Sony, and Etisalat in the UAE. This year we are with Unite 8 and Zee, which are again the World Cup hosting channels. So, we have looked at this as a thing which the whole country can actually look at, he said.
CPI(M) to fight ED move against Pinarayi Vijayan legally, politically
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) The CPI(M) in Kerala is gearing up to fight, both legally and politically, the Enforcement Directorates move to pave the way for a corruption case against former two-time Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. State party secretary M.V.Govindan on Tuesday said the party will defend Vijayan legally and politically. The EDs latest action threatens to cast a shadow over the partys extended state committee meeting being held at Kozhikode over three days starting on Saturday to discuss organisational shortcomings and corrective measures. The ED has submitted a report to the Director General of Police under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, seeking action under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The report contains details of the evidence allegedly unearthed during the agencys investigation into the monthly payment case. The ED has also sought action against his son-in-law, P.A.Mohammed Riyas, a party MLA, and his wife, Veena T. The EDs move could have wider implications for the case. Registration of an FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act would enable the agency to proceed with further action in the monthly payment case. The ED has alleged that Exalogic Solutions received Rs 2.78 crore from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) without providing any services in return. The agency has taken the view that the transaction falls within the ambit of money laundering. The immediate question is how the state government will respond to the EDs recommendation. The police will have to take a position on the demand to register an FIR, potentially putting the government in a politically sensitive situation. State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the State Police Chief would submit his views to the Home Secretary, following which the matter would come before him and be discussed with the Chief Minister before a decision is taken. The development has already triggered a political attack from Revolutionary Socialist Party MP N.K. Premachandran. He said the EDs move was based on clear evidence and that what had emerged so far was only the tip of the iceberg. This is a new experience in left-wing politics. The CPI(M) must take a stand on the issue and make its position clear. What has emerged against a senior leader is a serious corruption allegation, Premachandran said. He alleged that all of Vijayans arguments had collapsed and Vijayan was not responding to the allegations raised by the ED. The CPI(M) cannot escape responsibility. More cases will emerge, Premachandran said. For the CPI(M), the timing is particularly uncomfortable, with the extended state committee meeting examining the reasons for the partys electoral setback and discussing measures for course correction. The ED action against its top leader is now set to add a major political dimension to those deliberations.
One held for attempting to murder prison officer in Keralam
The accused, Ashish, a habitual offender, assaulted prison officer Prajith at the Chala market in Thiruvananthapuram on July 18, 2026 due to a previous enmity
ED seeks fresh FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, family in Exalogic-CMRL case
The Enforcement Directorate has asked Kerala Police to register a fresh case against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena and former Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas in the CMRL-Exalogic case. The agency has levelled fresh allegations of bribery and routing of funds, while the CPI(M) has rejected the charges and accused the ED of political targeting.
Muttil tree felling case: Kerala HC reserves verdict on accuseds plea
Court vacates interim order to enable filing of final report within 10 days; HC had earlier dismissed accuseds discharge plea in cheating case
Meghalaya, Sikkim journalists tour INS Sunayana, get glimpse of naval operations
Kochi, Sep 9: It was a moment of pride for journalists from Meghalaya and Sikkim as they stepped aboard INS Sunayana and got a first-hand look at the workings of an Indian Naval vessel during a media tour of Kerala organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Tuesday. Lieutenant Naorem Nivash, ASW Officer aboard [] The post Meghalaya, Sikkim journalists tour INS Sunayana, get glimpse of naval operations first appeared on Highland Post .
CPI(M) Keralam State committee unanimously passes report on steps to strengthen party: Govindan
He says extended State committee meeting in Kozhikode from September 13, 2026 will discuss both the central committees review of the election results and the State committees report with a view to preparing a practical action plan for course correction
Kochi police invoke POCSO Act against two accused in morphing case
In addition to regular Telegram groups, the police find a paid premium group linked to the case
Kannur varsity Registrar removed amid shift in stand in Priya Varghese case
The decision to replace the registrar was reportedly brought before the Syndicate as a special agenda item. The post has been entrusted to Finance Officer Sunil Kumar S. He will discharge the duties of the Registrar until further arrangements are made by the university
Nothing to fear, says Riyas on ED request for anti-corruption case
The former Minister says they are confident of proving innocence in the Exalogic-CMRL pay-off case
Kerala MLA P.A. Mohammad Riyas Vows to Fight ED Allegations Legally
Kerala MLA P.A. Mohammad Riyas responds to ED allegations, asserting confidence in legal battle against corruption claims. Kerala MLA P.A. Mohammad Riyas Vows to Fight ED Allegations Legally
Keralams Kasaragod to get new harbour projects, stronger coastal protection measures
Detailed proposal for Ajanur fishing harbour to be submitted this year for funding under NABARD or PMMSY. Stronger coastal protection measures, including the use of tetrapods, to be implemented.
Keralams Kasaragod to get new harbour projects, stronger coastal protection measures
Detailed proposal for Ajanur fishing harbour to be submitted this year for funding under NABARD or PMMSY. Stronger coastal protection measures, including the use of tetrapods, to be implemented.
Thousands pay respects to Chitturs former MLA K. Achuthan
After the public viewing, his body was cremated on the premises of his home at Chalakalath
Keralam women MLAs walk out of National Commission for Women workshop
Keralam delegation expresses deep dissatisfaction over language barriers, irrelevance in workshop topics, and abrupt dismissal of crucial policy questions by NCW leadership
Protesters at Kaipamangalam demands action on NH 66 safety lapses
MLA K. K. Valsaraj blames poor safety compliance, illegal parking and inadequate monitoring for a string of fatal accidents
MG University in Keralam begins work on one-year PG programmes
University Syndicate decides to initiate preparations for the new programmes, including curriculum development, following a directive from the State Higher Education Council to introduce one-year PG courses for graduates of four-year degree programmes
Technocrat Sreedharan and Keralam CM Satheesan discuss key connectivity projects
They reportedly discussed significant connectivity and development initiatives, particularly the proposed high-speed rail project linking Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur.
Man arrested from West Bengal for Attappady double murder
Provath Das has reportedly confessed to killing the woman and child. He says they were not his wife and child and he had known them for only two months
Water scarcity grips several parts of Kochi
Rising heat, power disruptions and the partial collapse of the Thammanam water tank contribute to the shortage; Panampilly Nagar, Vaduthala West, Vyttila and Gandhi Nagar among the divisions affected; KWA says a permanent solution can be achieved only after the 190 MLD plant is realised
Water scarcity grips several parts of Kochi
Rising heat, power disruptions and the partial collapse of the Thammanam water tank contribute to the shortage; Panampilly Nagar, Vaduthala West, Vyttila and Gandhi Nagar among the divisions affected; KWA says a permanent solution can be achieved only after the 190 MLD plant is realised
Sunni Yuvajana Sangham urges CPI(M) not to blame minorities for poll defeat
SYS State general secretary Rahmathulla Saqafi Elamaram urges the CPI(M) to reflect on internal discontent, pointing to governance issues and dissatisfaction among party members as key factors in their loss.
Supreme Court Urged to Lift Stay on CBI Probe into Keralas Ex-Chief Secretary K.M. Abraham
A petition has been filed to remove the stay on the CBI investigation against K.M. Abraham, former chief secretary of Kerala, for disproportionate assets. Supreme Court Urged to Lift Stay on CBI Probe into Keralas Ex-Chief Secretary K.M. Abraham
Calicut University to launch new UG, PG courses to address changing job scenarios
According to official sources, the university is planning to launch at least 50 new undergraduate courses and 30 postgraduate courses soon in view of the rapid changes happening in academic disciplines and the demands of the employment market.
Four arrested in connection with theft of earth movers in custody in Keralams Idukki
Forest officials had seized two earth movers used for felling and clearing trees from Cardamom Hill Reserve of a private estate; the accused stole the impounded vehicles
Cyberpark holds conclave on future of WordPress
Organised by WordPress Community Kerala, WP Future Conclave 2026 brought together developers, designers, entrepreneurs, students, and technology professionals from different States.
New lichen species discovered in Keralams Mathikettan Shola National Park
The saxicolous lichen, Buellia maharajensis, thrives on rock surfaces at an elevation of 1,351 m.
Driving mental health awareness across India
Seher Hashmi is traversing thousands of kilometres across India on her Royal Enfield motorcycle to shatter the silence surrounding mental illness
A day out in Vande Bharat, Kochi Water Metro for residents of this old age home in Keralam
Organised jointly by the Kollam District Womens Council and Ys Men International, the trip took the elderly women to Kochi as District Collector Annie Jula Thomas flagged off the journey
Keralam to constitute district-level committees in three days to strengthen highway safety
Warning signage, barriers, lighting and reflectors will be installed soon at the under-construction and completed stretches on the national highways, including National Highway 66.
Slurry from quarry pollutes Cherupuzha in Kozhikode
Slurry tank at a granite quarry reportedly burst, discharging waste into the Cherupuzha. Drinking water sources and bathing spots along the riverbank have reportedly become unfit for use.
Asutosh Biswas assumes charge as Head of Project at NTPC Kayamkulam
He has over three decades of experience in the power sector, and was previously Chief General Manager (Operation and Maintenance) at NTPC Unchahar in Uttar Pradesh
Nothing to fear, probe will prove no wrongdoing: Vijayan's son-in-law Riyas
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) CPI-M MLA and former Kerala minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas on Tuesday put up a defiant front after the Enforcement Directorate sought a police case against him, his wife T. Veena, and his father-in-law and Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL monthly payment case. There is nothing wrong. Let any probe take place. We will deal with it legally, Riyas said in his first reaction to the ED move. Riyas said he had nothing to fear as no wrongdoing had taken place. He expressed confidence that the investigation would not establish anything against him. I am fully confident that nothing is going to happen in the probe. The country has seen on many occasions how ED cases have gone about, he said. He also appeared confident about the eventual outcome of the investigation. I am absolutely self-confident about the findings as no wrong has been done at all, he said. The strong reaction came hours after the ED asked the Kerala Police to register an FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Vijayan, Veena, and Riyas in connection with alleged payments linked to Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL). The agency forwarded its findings to state police chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The DGP has confirmed receiving the report. The ED has alleged that payments made by CMRL to Veenas company, Exalogic Solutions, were not genuine payments for services and has alleged a wider financial trail involving Vijayan and Riyas. These are allegations at the investigation stage and have not been established by a court. The latest development assumes added significance in the wake of ED searches at the homes of two close aides of Riyas. The EDs action marks a major escalation in the CMRL case, which had initially centred on alleged payments to Exalogic. The police will now examine the ED report and decide on further action, including registration of an FIR. Riyas, however, made it clear that he was ready to face the investigation and challenge the allegations through legal means.
The major news headlines of the day and more.
'Metro Man' Sreedharan meets CM Satheesan, discusses key development projects
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) 'Metro Man' E. Sreedharan met Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan on Tuesday for discussions on major connectivity and development projects in the state. The meeting was held at the Chief Ministers office, and the discussions focused on improving connectivity. They also covered long-term development projects. Satheesan later described the discussions as fruitful. Met with Dr E. Sreedharan today. Held fruitful discussions on advancing key connectivity and state development projects to ensure sustainable, long-term growth, the Chief Minister said on his social media accounts. The meeting assumes significance given Sreedharans experience in executing major infrastructure projects in the country. Sreedharan is widely known for his role in the construction of the Delhi Metro, and was also closely associated with the development of the Konkan Railway. His expertise has also been sought for major transport projects in Kerala. Sreedharan had earlier held discussions with Satheesan on his proposal for a high-speed rail corridor in Kerala. He had submitted an interim report on the proposal to the Chief Minister. The UDF government later appointed an expert panel to examine the proposal and look into its technical and financial feasibility. Environmental and other aspects were also to be examined. The government has not taken a final decision on the project. Tuesdays meeting, however, was not described as being limited to the high-speed rail proposal. The Chief Minister referred to key connectivity and state development projects, suggesting that the discussions covered a broader development agenda. Sreedharans meeting with Satheesan comes at a time when the government is looking at ways to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the state. The government has been stressing the need for projects that are financially viable and sustainable. Sreedharans inputs could be significant in this context. The meeting also indicates that the government continues to engage with the veteran infrastructure expert on Keralas development priorities. No details of specific projects discussed at the meeting were officially disclosed. The meeting is expected to keep Sreedharans infrastructure proposals and his views on Keralas development agenda in focus.
YouTuber moves Kerala HC seeking case against Sunny Kapikad for derogatory remarks about Ayyappa
Rahul Easwar also seeks directions to remove videos, which allegedly contains the derogatory remarks, from social media
One crore youngsters in race for Viksit Bharat dialogue
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) Nearly one crore youngsters are expected to take part in a nationwide talent hunt that will select young representatives for the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2027, with Kerala's participants being challenged to come up with ideas on the blue economy, human capital and global competitiveness. Registration for the programme has begun through the MY Bharat platform, with youngsters aged 15 to 29 eligible to take part in the Viksit Bharat quiz. The last date for participation is September 30. The quiz set a Guinness World Record last year for attracting the highest number of participants in a quiz competition within a week. MY Bharat State Director S.R. Abhay Shankar on Tuesday announced the programme here. He said the initiative was aimed at harnessing the creativity, ideas and innovative potential of young people and bringing them into the country's development process. The selected youngsters will participate in the national-level Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue in New Delhi from January 10 to 12, 2027. The programme is being organised in connection with National Youth Day, which is observed on January 12 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Kerala has been assigned Blue Economy, Human Capital & Global Competitiveness as the theme for the Viksit Bharat Challenge. Around 45 participants will be selected from the State, with the top three getting an opportunity to make presentations at the national level. The Viksit Bharat Challenge will be held in three stages: quiz, essay and PowerPoint presentation. The national initiative will have six tracks, covering the Viksit Bharat Challenge, culture, design, technology, entrepreneurship and youth parliament. The winners will also get an opportunity to interact with the Prime Minister. The Cultural Track will provide 24 youngsters from Kerala an opportunity to represent the State at the national level. They will be selected from the winners of Kerala Utsavam competitions organised by the Kerala State Youth Welfare Board. The Design for Bharat competition will invite young people to develop solutions to local development challenges. NIT Calicut is the nodal agency for Kerala. The Hack for Social Cause competition, with IIT Bombay as knowledge partner, will focus on digital solutions to social problems, with IIT Palakkad as the State nodal agency. A new Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, with IIT Kanpur as knowledge partner, will provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to present startup ideas and business plans. The age limit for this track is 35 years. The Youth Parliament finalists will get an opportunity to participate in the national-level programme at Samvidhan Sadan, the old Parliament building, in New Delhi. Kerala will have three representatives. Kerala State Youth Welfare Board Member Secretary M. Swapna was also present. The organisers said the initiative would give young people an opportunity not merely to participate in competitions but also to put forward ideas and solutions relating to India's development. Interested youngsters can register by participating in the Viksit Bharat quiz through the MY Bharat portal.
Lift stay on CBI probe against former Kerala Chief Secy Abraham: Petitioner tells SC
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) Petitioner Jomon Puthenpurackal on Tuesday approached the Supreme Court seeking removal of the interim stay on the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation into alleged disproportionate assets of retired former Kerala Chief Secretary K.M. Abraham. In a counter-affidavit filed before the Supreme Court, Jomon contended that there was no legal basis to halt the CBI probe and urged the court to allow the investigation to proceed. The CBI has also opposed Abraham's petition seeking to stop the investigation. In its affidavit, CBI Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Renuka Devi, who is also the Investigating Officer of the agency's Kochi Anti-Corruption unit, said that Abraham's plea was not maintainable and should be dismissed. The case relates to alleged possession of assets disproportionate to Abraham's known sources of income during the period from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2015. The Kerala High Court had ordered registration of an FIR and a CBI investigation on April 11, 2025. The CBI registered the case on April 25. Abraham subsequently approached the Supreme Court, which granted an interim stay on the probe. A key issue before the Supreme Court is whether prior government sanction was required before investigating Abraham. Jomon has said that no such sanction was necessary, relying on the 1984 Constitution Bench judgment in the R.S. Nayak-A.R. Antulay case. He has also contended that Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, introduced through an amendment in 2018, cannot be applied retrospectively to alleged offences committed much earlier. Jomon also alleged that an earlier Vigilance inquiry into Abraham's assets had been curtailed, with the period of investigation allegedly reduced from 2000-2015 to 2000-2009. He claimed that the Kerala High Court had taken note of the issue. The petitioner has also raised allegations regarding the non-disclosure of property details in mandatory statements submitted by government officials. He referred to properties allegedly held in Kollam, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, including a shopping complex, a flat in Mumbai and an apartment in the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Jomon said Abraham's allegation that the High Court proceedings amounted to forum shopping could not be accepted. He also added that Abraham had since resigned as CEO of Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board and as Chief Principal Secretary to the former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan after the change of government in Kerala. Jomon said that allowing the CBI investigation to continue was in the larger public interest and that the stay, if continued at the initial stage of the probe, could impede efforts to establish the truth. Following his retirement, Abraham occupied key posts in the Pinarayi Vijayan administration and was the trusted aide of Vijayan.
Five squads to be deployed in Keralams Ernakulam to ensure safe travel on NHs
They will take steps to clear encroachments and illegal parking in a time-bound manner. The measures come in the wake of an accident that killed eight students from Tamil Nadu after the multi-utility vehicle they were travelling in rammed a parked lorry in Thrissur
First woman student performs mizhavu arangettam at Kerala Kalamandalam
Theatre practitioner Apurva Arthur bridges contemporary performance and a classical ritual tradition with the percussion instrument
Vaccinating dogs, not people, holds key to ending rabies deaths in Kerala, India
A new study has found that expanding dog vaccination, rather than introducing routine pre-exposure vaccination for children, is the most effective and cost-effective way to eliminate rabies deaths in people in Kerala, India.
Fireworks show in Kerala goes awry, kills 107
Sparks fall on storehouse, igniting crackers stocked there; officials had denied permission for competitive fireworks display; several buildings in vicinity of temple were damaged; Narendra Modi rushes to Kollam with team of medical experts.
ED sends 25-page report to State Police Chief (SPC) Ravada A. Chandrasekhar under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, enclosing findings and supporting evidence from its investigation. The SPCs scrutiny of the ED report will determine whether the material warrants registration of a First Information Report, referral to the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, or any other legally permissible action
INL accuses Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan of pushing PM SHRI scheme through backdoor
INL State president Ahammad Devarkovil and general secretary Kasim Irikkur accuse V.D. Satheesan of trying to facilitate implementation of PM-SHRI in Keralam in a manner favourable to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the BJP
Kerala HC stays trial in 2016 Puttingal fireworks accident case
Court seeks States explanation on change of public prosecutor in proceedings before trial court. The incident in Kollam district had killed 109 people and injured 280 others
KUDSIT Digital University of Kerala Gym Trainer Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online
Kerala University of Digital Sciences Innovation and Technology (Digital University Kerala) has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for Gym Trainer posts. A total of 1 vacancy has been announced under this recruitment drive. The online application process will be conducted up to 18-09-2026. Interested candidates can apply online through the official website.
Kerala CM Praises Students Invitation to Traditional Onam Feast
Keralas CM VD Satheesan commends a fourth graders heartfelt invitation to a traditional Onam feast featuring 101 dishes. Kerala CM Praises Students Invitation to Traditional Onam Feast
Kerala Chief Minister Praises Students Invitation to Traditional Onam Feast
Kerala CM VD Satheesan commends a students heartfelt invitation to a 101-dish Onam feast at her school in Idukki. Kerala Chief Minister Praises Students Invitation to Traditional Onam Feast
Internal Vigilance and audit wings of CDB have been tasked with investigating the allegations and submitting reports
Another crash into parked lorry on NH 544 raises highway safety concerns in Keralam
Container truck rams goods vehicle at Nandikkara on NH 544, days after eight students from T.N. were killed in a similar crash at Kaipamangalam on NH 66
Probe Agency ED To Investigate Bribery Allegations Against Pinarayi Vijayan, Daughter
Enforcement Directorate alleges Rs 3.28 crore bribe to Kerala leader Pinarayi Vijayan via daughter Veena T while he was Chief Minister.
Don Palatharas Ekadesham to premiere at Filmfest Aachen 2026 in Germany
Set to be screened at the festival on September 25, Ekadesham stars Roshan Mathew, Divya Prabha, Jithin Puthenchery, Vinay Forrt, Santhy Balachandran and Mahesh Narayanan
Kerala Anchor Faces Police Case After Row Over Muslim Scholar's Remarks
The complaint relates to statements made by the anchor during the television debate, which triggered a controversy and was later removed by the channel.
Kerala University PG Result 2026 Out - Direct Link to Check Result Online @ keralauniversity.ac.in
Kerala University released results for M.Sc Electronics Sem 1 (Jan 2026), M.A Philosophy Sem 4 (Apr 2026), and MBA Sem 2 (Sept 2025 - Full Time, Travel & Tourism, Disaster Management) on 07/09/2026. Download official PDFs here.
ED Seeks FIR Against Former CM Pinarayi, Veena and Riyas in CMRL Case
It is alleged by the ED that Kerala mining firm Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) made fraudulent payments worth Rs 2.78 crore to Veena's now-defunct company Exalogic Solutions under the guise of 'IT consultancy services'
Enforcement Directorate has sent a communication under Section 66 (2) of Prevention of Money Laundering Act citing findings of its investigation in the CMRL pay-off case, say sources
Kerala Chief Minister Meets Renowned Engineer E. Sreedharan to Discuss State Development
Keralas CM V.D. Satheesan met with E. Sreedharan to discuss key development projects aimed at sustainable growth in the state. Kerala Chief Minister Meets Renowned Engineer E. Sreedharan to Discuss State Development
CPI-M gets wary of leaks ahead of Kerala unit's crucial Kozhikode meet
Digital Desk | Kozhikode, Sep 8 (IANS) The CPI-M, increasingly wary of confidential discussions finding their way outside the party, appears to have taken an unusual step to plug information leaks ahead of its crucial three-day extended Kerala state Committee meeting beginning in Kozhikode on Saturday. According to party sources, members of the Thiruvananthapuram district leadership have been asked to sign consent forms authorising the disclosure of their telephone call details to the party, in what is understood to be an effort to identify the source of any leakage of confidential discussions. The move, if confirmed, would mark an extraordinary extension of the party's traditional emphasis on secrecy surrounding its internal deliberations. The forms were reportedly circulated among district secretariat members recently. The format is understood to contain an authorisation by the individual to the telephone service provider to furnish call details. The leadership has also warned that strict action would follow if confidential party discussions were leaked. The reported move comes at a particularly sensitive time for the CPI-M. The party had gone into the 2026 Assembly election expecting Pinarayi Vijayan to secure a historic third consecutive term, but suffered a severe electoral setback instead. The defeat has since triggered considerable restlessness within the organisation, with questions being raised over the party's political strategy, organisational functioning, and leadership. The extended state committee meeting in Kozhikode, spread over three days from Saturday, assumes significance against this backdrop. With a large section of the party leadership expected to participate, the discussions are likely to include a detailed assessment of the electoral defeat. Leaks from party meetings have become a growing concern with the proliferation of mobile phones and other electronic devices. Meetings that were once conducted with considerable secrecy have increasingly become vulnerable to information being transmitted outside almost instantly. The CPI-M itself has, in the past, used technological evidence, including phone records, while acting against leaders and workers for alleged violations of party discipline. The latest reported move suggests that technology may now be turning inward, as the party seeks to guard the confidentiality of its own deliberations. However, the move has reportedly caused unease among a section of leaders, who feel that seeking such consent amounts to an extraordinary measure. They are understood to be considering bringing the issue to the attention of senior state and central leaders.
Kerala man's account frozen over mysterious UPI paymentWhat to do, rules, customer rights explained
A man from Kerala reported receiving two unknown UPI payments but chose not to return them, suspecting a scam. His bank account was subsequently frozen. Here are the rules and customer rights in such cases.
The direction was issued after the ongoing inspections based on complaints of overpricing of food and beverages in multiplexes found the non-availability of free drinking water to theatre-goers
Keralam facing power cuts due to rising temperatures, increase in electricity usage: Minister
At the same time, due to a weak monsoon, the water level in the States hydel power dams is low, leading to reduction in power generation, says Sunny Joseph
Kerala Faces Power Crisis Amidst Severe Heatwave
Kerala is grappling with a power crisis due to a heatwave, prompting potential electricity rationing as temperatures soar. Kerala Faces Power Crisis Amidst Severe Heatwave
Unisex Salon Brand PURE 8 Expands into Kerala
Industries minister Kunhalikutty said the brand's business model could create new entrepreneurship opportunities in the state
Keralam Information Commissioner Warns Officials Over Missing RTI Files
If a file is missing, legal action should be initiated and each file should have a designated custodian, he said.
CPI(M) in Keralam steps up attack on G. Sudhakaran, seeks details of election funds
CPI(M) Alappuzha district secretariat member H. Salam launches sharp attack on Ambalappuzha MLA G. Sudhakaran, accusing him of financial irregularities and challenging him to come clean on his assets
Burial chamber found in Nittadukkam in Kasaragod district. Historian says the monument has survived largely because of local beliefs surrounding it and could be one of the oldest surviving indicators of Kanhangads human past
Keralam Swelters as Mercury Crosses 36C Amid Weak Monsoon
According to the latest IMD data, Punalur in Kollam district recorded a maximum temperature of 36.2 degrees Celsius on Monday, a striking 4.3 degrees above normal for the station
Heatwave pushes Kerala into power crisis, restrictions likely
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 8 (IANS) Kerala is facing a double blow of scorching heat and an escalating power crisis, with temperatures expected to remain 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal for another day and electricity restrictions likely to continue in several areas. The state recorded a maximum temperature of 36.2 degrees Celsius on Monday, while the India Meteorological Department has warned that the hot conditions will persist on Tuesday. Relief is likely from Wednesday, with some parts of the state expected to receive rain. The surge in temperatures has triggered a sharp rise in electricity consumption, with the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) estimating that demand has jumped by as much as 800 MW. With adequate power unavailable from outside the state during peak hours, the KSEB imposed restrictions of up to an hour in several areas on Monday. The situation could worsen if the demand pattern remains unchanged on Tuesday. The KSEB said the absence of short-term power contracts and high prices in the real-time electricity market were making additional procurement difficult. Although the board had floated tenders to procure power for September, no company came forward to supply electricity during peak hours, leaving the board with limited options to meet the sudden spike in demand. Meanwhile, the State Disaster Management Authority has issued a series of precautionary measures as the intense heat raises the risk of sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. The authorities have advised people to avoid direct exposure to the sun, particularly during the hottest hours, drink plenty of water, and remain vigilant against symptoms associated with excessive heat. The heat warning is in force from September 7 to 9, with the Meteorological Department cautioning that temperatures could remain significantly above normal across the state. With electricity consumption rising sharply as households and establishments depend increasingly on cooling appliances, the weather conditions are now adding further pressure to an already strained power supply system.
Keralam swelters as mercury crosses 36 degrees Celsius in Sept amid weak monsoon
Kerala is experiencing unusually early September heat as temperatures rise significantly. Punalur recorded a high of 36.2 degrees Celsius, far above normal levels. This heatwave occurs while the southwest monsoon remains notably weak across the state. Other districts like Kottayam and Palakkad also registered high temperatures. The combination creates a feeling of continued summer heat in many areas.
Head of Zamorin's family of Kozhikode passes away
Mr. Raja was a resident of Chinthavalappu in Kozhikode City. He took charge as the head of the family in June 2025 after the demise of K.C. Ramachandran Raja, a management expert, whose tenure at the helm spanned only a couple of months.
Karnataka cuts Cauvery water release to Tamil Nadu by 57 pc amid rainfall dip
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 8 (IANS) The quantity of Cauvery water being released to Tamil Nadu from Karnataka's Krishnaraja Sagar and Kabini reservoirs has been reduced sharply to 5,200 cubic feet per second following a decline in rainfall and inflows across the upper catchment areas. The combined discharge had stood at 11,983 cusecs the previous day. It has now fallen by 6,783 cusecs, representing a reduction of nearly 57 per cent within a day. The decline is significant for Tamil Nadu, which closely monitors releases from Karnataka's Cauvery basin reservoirs. The water flowing downstream contributes to the storage at the Mettur Dam and supports irrigation in the Cauvery delta, where farmers rely on timely supplies for standing crops and seasonal cultivation. Of the total quantity released towards Tamil Nadu, 4,800 cusecs were being discharged from the Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir, commonly known as KRS. The remaining 1,200 cusecs were being released from the Kabini reservoir. KRS is situated at Srirangapatna in Karnataka's Mandya district. Its catchment area includes Kodagu district and parts of Wayanad in Kerala. Rain has completely stopped in Kodagu, leading to a steady reduction in the volume of water entering the reservoir. By Monday morning, the water level at KRS stood at 106.84 feet against its full reservoir level of 124.80 feet. The inflow was recorded at 2,511 cusecs, while outflow remained higher at 4,800 cusecs. As discharge exceeded the inflow, the reservoir's stored water continued to decline. A similar situation was reported at the Kabini reservoir in Mysuru district. Its water level was recorded at 2,268.50 feet above sea level, compared with the full reservoir level of 2,284 feet. The inflow into Kabini stood at 2,514 cusecs, while 1,200 cusecs were being discharged downstream. The releases from Kabini and KRS together accounted for the 5,200 cusecs flowing towards Tamil Nadu. Reservoir discharges are normally regulated after considering rainfall, inflows, available storage and downstream requirements. With rainfall weakening across the upper Cauvery catchments, the authorities are expected to closely monitor reservoir levels before making further changes. The reduction has renewed attention on water availability for Tamil Nadu's Cauvery delta. Any fresh spell of rain in Kodagu and Wayanad could improve inflows into KRS, Kabini and other reservoirs in the basin.
Watch: Kerala's new government bus will give your road travel a flight-like feel
Watch Keralas new government bus will give your road travel a flightlike feel
