Exalogic-CMRL pay-off case: 10 premises in Kerala and Bengaluru raided, says ED
Raids yielded documents pertaining to investments and fixed deposits in banks, say ED sources
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed a wide range of issues, including the Mekedatu dam issue, the arrest of fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy and the Vande Mataram controversy. The meeting comes barely two weeks after the actor-turned-politician assumed office. The meeting is significant as it is Vijay's maiden official visit to Delhi after becoming the CM. According to a government release, CM Vijay expressed serious concern over Karnataka's announcement of a ground-breaking ceremony for the Mekedatu dam project across the Cauvery River. He pointed out that the move was completely against the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) and the verdict of the Supreme Court. He said the development has caused concern among Tamil Nadu farmers and urged the PM to direct the Jal Shakti Ministry and the Central Water Commission not to permit the project without the consent of co-basin states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry. CM requested Modi to issue a clear directive allowing the Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu (invocation song) to be sung at the start of government events. During the meeting, Vijay also urged the prime minister to take strong measures to secure the immediate release of Tamil Nadu fishermen and their vessels. According to the Tamil Nadu government, 12 such arrest incidents have taken place in 2026 so far, with 58 fishermen currently in Sri Lankan custody and 266 fishing boats seized. Vijay requested PM Modi to ensure efforts by both the Indian and Sri Lankan governments for the immediate release of the fishermen and their boats. Vijay also sought the establishment of the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Tamil Nadu. He said discussions had been underway within the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) regarding the setting up of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) design and development centre and CABS in the state. Vijay also visited Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. A statement from the CM's office said he told the finance minister that Tamil Nadu continues to emerge as a rapidly developing state and stressed that investment in key infrastructure projects is essential to sustain and accelerate this growth. Vijay requested Sitharaman to prioritise financial allocations for sectors crucial to Tamil Nadus development, including highways, railway projects and industrial corridors. The CM also urged the Union government to establish institutes of national importance in Tamil Nadu in order to further strengthen the states educational ecosystem. Further, he sought financial support for metro rail projects aimed at improving public transport infrastructure in Coimbatore and Madurai.
ED raid at Kerala Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayans residence sparks fury across State
Irate protesters vandalise three cars used by ED officials; driver injured
'Rape' of Dalit woman: Palakkad councillor surrenders after Kerala HC rejects anticipatory bail plea
Survivor alleged in a complaint to the Chief Minister that Prasobh Valsan, then a councillor of the Congress, trespassed into her house and raped her. He has been absconding since the case was registered
Driven by increased lending and improved asset management, this growth represents the best performance in the institutions 73-year history, says the corporation
Kerala Congress (M) sticks to cadre drift within CPI(M) as reason for poll defeat
The partys high power committee meeting dismisses the counter narrative floated within the LDF that the KC(M) workers had shifted support to the UDF in several constituencies
New study urges Kerala govt. pursue measures to improve revenue mobilisation, expenditure efficiency
ED raid on ex-Kerala CM Pinarayis house sparks protests in Kerala, Delhi
The Enforcement Directorate searched properties linked to CPI(M) leader and former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his son-in-law Mohammad Riyas and daughter Veena Vijayan over suspected fictitious payments from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. The raids triggered widespread protests by CPI(M) workers across Kerala and Delhi, with some workers attacking ED vehicles in Thiruvananthapuram.
JNTBGRI scientists discover rare new tree species in Kerala; named in honour of Prof. G.M. Nair
The newly discovered species were identified in the riparian forests of the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Sessions for training enumerators and supervisors to use the special digital app designed for the work are expected to kick off on Friday
Kerala: CPI(M)-Police clash erupts during protest against ED raid at Pinarayi Vijayans residence
ED Conducts Raids in CMRL Fraud Case Involving Veena Vijayan
New Delhi, May 27: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out raids on approximately ten locations linked to Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited on Wednesday. This action follows the Kerala High Courts decision to uphold the EDs investigation into an alleged money laundering case involving the company. During the raids, the ED seized documents related to ... Read more ED Conducts Raids in CMRL Fraud Case Involving Veena Vijayan
Enforcement Directorate ends search at Pinarayi Vijayans Kannur house; CPI(M) workers protest
According to the Mahazar prepared after the inspection, no documents related to the case were recovered from the residence. Large-scale protests erupt outside the former CM's residence soon after the raids began. The protest against the ED raid later spreads across Kerala
After the raids, CPI(M) workers allegedly attacked vehicles carrying ED officials outside Vijayan's residence, damaging three vehicles and injuring security personnel, drivers and police officials. Protesters smashed windows with sticks and stones. Police later detained several people involved in the violence.
Kerala Financial Corp post 111 crore PAT; loan portfolio crosses 9,000 crore
Growth was driven by higher lending activity and better asset management
Southwest monsoon further advances in Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, Bay of Bengal: IMD
NEW DELHI, May 27: The monsoon has missed its expected onset date of May 26 in Kerala but has further advanced into some more parts of the southwest and southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep area and Bay of Bengal, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday. The IMD had earlier estimated that the monsoon would arrive in Kerala on May 26 with a model error of 4 days. The monsoon usually sets over Kerala around June 1, marking [] The post Southwest monsoon further advances in Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, Bay of Bengal: IMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Video: Pinarayi Vijayan Supporters Attack Probe Team's Car, Smash Windshield
Personnel of a central police force were attacked with slippers by supporters of former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan today as Enforcement Directorate officers came to search his house.
CPI(M) Workers Clash with ED Officials Outside Former CM Vijayans Residence
Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: A significant uproar occurred outside the residence of former Chief Minister and current opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram. CPI(M) workers attacked vehicles belonging to Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials as they protested against the central agency. This incident followed EDs search operations at ten locations in Kerala related to the Cochin Minerals ... Read more CPI(M) Workers Clash with ED Officials Outside Former CM Vijayans Residence
Protesters attack ED officials vehicle outside Pinarayi Vijayans house in Kerala capital after raids
Attack happens after ED officials completed raid and were leaving the premises
Monsoon arrives over Lanka, clears last hurdle before reaching Kerala
In normal circumstances, the monsoon can take up to a week to cross into Kerala from Sri Lanka
Kerala lottery results today: Kerala Lottery Dhanalekshmi DL-54 results for Wednesday, 27 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.
CPI(M) alleges Congress-BJP nexus over ED action in Kerala
CPI(M) accuses the ruling party in Kerala of playing second fiddle to BJPs fondness for using ED to target Opposition figures and strong-arm political adversaries into switching allegiances
ED Raids Ex-Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans Homes In Money Laundering Case
The EDs actions follow reports suggesting that Exalogic Solutions received payments without documented services.
Ad slowdown dulls impact of HC relief on TV landing page revenues
Broadcasters face a tough advertising market. The Kerala High Court's decision on TV ratings provides temporary relief for cable and DTH operators. However, declining ad revenue forces broadcasters to cut spending on promotional tools like landing pages. This impacts operator income as they rely on these placements. The industry is adapting to changing viewer habits and economic pressures.
Eid Ul Adha 2026 holiday list India: Muslims across India prepare to celebrate Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakrid, this week. The festival is a gazetted holiday, with many states announcing closures. Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Telangana will observe the holiday on May 28, 2026. Uttar Pradesh has declared a two-day holiday. Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir mark May 27. Kerala offers an extended break.
ED raids in Kerala: Mohamed Riyas says CPI(M) will not bow before Sangh Parivar
Kerala Postal Circle posts 10% revenue growth; rolls out new parcel and delivery initiatives
In April 2026, the Kerala Circle also secured the third position in the country in parcel revenue growth for FY 202627
Kochi-Muziris Biennale: the brightest jewel in the citys crown
The countrys only art biennale of international clout shows the world what art is to the city, or rather what the city is to art. It is also the citys biggest achievement when it comes to art and its showcase
Sreedharan was celebrated for compiling Chathur Dravida Bhasha Padhaparichayam, a work hailed as a milestone in the study of South Indian languages
ED raids ex-Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's house; 'politically motivated,' says CPI(M) MP John Brittas
Kerala Home Min Denies Role in ED Raids at Ex-CM Vijayans Residences
We have no intimation regarding ED raids against Pinarayi Vijayan. Kerala police assistance not sought by the central agency, said Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala
Ragbag 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram, to feature curated performances, food and craft
The international performing arts festival has acts from European and Latin American countries, a food festival curated by Anumitra Ghosh Dastidar and a craft bazaar curated by Jaya Jaitly
ED raids on Vijayan's residences 'politically motivated': CPI(M) gen secy M A Baby
The Enforcement Directorate is conducting raids at multiple locations in Kerala, including the residence of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. These raids are part of an investigation into alleged money laundering involving his daughter, Veena T, and a private entity, Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd.
Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar reminisces about his deep bond with tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, highlighting their fusion performances and personal connection
Exhibition of contemporary Emarati art gets under way in Kochi
Month-long exhibition is being organised by Abu Dhabi-based Rizq Art Initiative in association with the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi, Department of Cultural Affairs, and Abu Dhabi Art
Documentary showcasing legendary shadow puppetry artiste to expand reach of art form
Nizhal Yathrikan, based on Ramachandra Pulavars life and work, directed by theatre artist Saheer Ali premieres in Kochi
KTET December 2025 Result Out; Steps To Check Category Wise Marks
The Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan has released the KTET December 2026 results on its official website for all four categories.
HSCAP Kerala Plus One admissions 2026 begin: Check steps to apply, important dates and details here
Kerala's Plus One admissions for 2026 have commenced via the HSCAP portal, with applications open until June 3rd. Students can apply online for government and aided schools, selecting streams like Science, Commerce, and Humanities. Seat allotment hinges on Class 10 marks and reservation criteria. Key dates include trial allotment on June 8th and the first allotment on June 15th.
Kerala-based artist and sculptor John Baby turns palm leaves into toys
At a summer camp in the city organised by Thanal, John shows children how to make their own toys from palm leaves
ED searches ex-Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan in CMRL case
ED Raids on Vijayans Residences Politically Motivated: CPI(M) Gen Secy
CPI(M) leader Baby said that the former Kerala CM was arrested and faced brutal police assault when he was an MLA during the emergency declared by Indira Gandhi
Exalogic-CMRL pay-off case: ED conducts simultaneous raids in Keralas Ernakulam
In Ernakulam, searches are being conducted at the corporate office of CMRL in Aluva, the residence of its managing director Sasidharan Kartha, also in Aluva, and the office of a sister concern of CMRL
Keralas CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids Linked to Former CM Pinarayi Vijayan
Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: The General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), M.A. Baby, sharply criticized the central government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress party on Wednesday. This condemnation follows the Enforcement Directorates raids connected to the CMRL-Exalogic case involving former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Baby described the ... Read more Keralas CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids Linked to Former CM Pinarayi Vijayan
hscap.kerala.gov.in Kerala HSCAP Plus One Admission 2026: Kerala Plus One admissions for 2026-27 are now open. Students who passed SSLC can apply online via HSCAP. The official website hscap.kerala.gov.in hosts the application form. Applicants need their SSLC details, mark sheets, transfer certificates, photos, and ID proof. General category students require a D+ grade in all subjects. The admission process is centralized.
Stunned Kerala watches as ED raids premises of former CM Vijayan in CMRL case
Enforcement Directorate officials raided locations connected to former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The searches are part of an investigation into alleged monthly payments from Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd to a company owned by Vijayan's daughter. Raids occurred at his residences and his son-in-law's home. The CPI(M) has called the action politically motivated.
after-sabarimala-gold-theft-allegations-hit-padmanabhaswamy-temple
Amid allegations of gold theft at the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple, another major Kerala shrine has come under scrutiny in a similar controversy. A report submitted by DGP Ravada A. Chandrasekhar to the Home Department has flagged suspected gold theft and security lapses at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. According to Manorama News , the DGP report claimed that nearly 78 grams of gold bars and coins offered by devotees to the temple have gone missing over the past few months. It also alleged that a multi-tiered gold lamp, which was removed for maintenance, was replaced with a silver substitute without any official documentation or records. In addition, the Vaira Nama inside the sanctum sanctorum, which was removed for repair, has reportedly not been reinstated for the past six months. The DGP report recommended that all gold and silver valuables currently stored outside the temple vaults be shifted to a centralised strong room. It also suggested that all valuable offerings made by devotees be properly documented and kept in designated lockers under strict police surveillance. The report further noted security lapses, stating that certain individualsincluding temple staff, security personnel, and associates of the royal familywere entering the temple without undergoing mandatory security checks. Police have also observed that some of these individuals are close to Aditya Varma of the royal family and are known to regularly visit the Kowdiar Palace. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple had hit national headlines in 2011 after several underground vaults at the shrine were opened for the first time, following a Supreme Court order to list the temple's assets. Of the six known vaults, five were opened and recorded, revealing a vast collection of gold, jewellery, and precious stones, estimated to be worth billions of dollars. But Vault B, remains sealed due to religious sensitivities. Meanwhile, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kerala Police is already investigating the Sabarimala gold theft case and has made multiple arrests in connection with the probe. The missing gold is reportedly linked to gold-clad copper plates of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols, as well as the door frames of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) at the hill shrine, which is managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Kerala: ED Raids Ex-CM Pinarayi Vijayans Residence in CMRL Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids at former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans residence and other locations in connection with the CMRL money laundering case involving his daughter T Veena.
KTET December result 2026 declared at ktet.kerala.gov.in: Direct link to download scorecards here
The Kerala Pareeksha Bhavan has released the KTET December Result 2026 for the Teacher Eligibility Test conducted on February 21 & 23, 2026. Candidates can now download their scorecards from the official KTET website using their registration details. This exam serves as an eligibility test for aspiring teachers in Kerala schools.
ed-raids-ex-kerala-cm-pinarayi-vijayans-house-in-money-laundering-case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at the residences of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and former Public Works Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation. Riyas, the Beypore MLA, is married to Vijayans daughter, Veena Vijayan. The probe is linked to allegations that Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL), a private company, made payments amounting to Rs 1.72 crore to Exalogic Solutions, an IT firm owned by Veena, between 2018 and 2019 without receiving any services in return. Investigators suspect that the funds were routed for illegal payments to politicians, political parties, media organisations, and public servants. Although Vijayan, a CPI(M) politburo member, has not been questioned in the case so far, officials indicated that his statement could be recorded as the investigation progresses. ED teams simultaneously carried out searches at 10 locations across Kerala, including Vijayans rented residence near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram, where Veena also resides, and his house in Kannur. Raids were also conducted at the offices of CMRL and at premises linked to senior company officials, including Managing Director Sasidharan Kartha. The agencys action came a day after the Kerala High Court dismissed a petition filed by CMRL seeking to quash the ED proceedings in the case. In its order on Tuesday, the High Court clarified that the ED can initiate inquiries and issue summons even without a formal FIR for a scheduled offence. The court observed that the existence of an FIR is not a mandatory requirement for issuing summons under Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The CPI(M) strongly condemned the ED raids at Vijayans residence, describing them as a targeted attack orchestrated by the BJP-led central government against a senior Opposition leader. This is a targeted attack on a top Opposition leader by the BJP government. Such actions will not intimidate Pinarayi Vijayan or the CPI(M), the party said in a post on X. The party also raised questions over the role of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala, asking whether it was complicit in the ED action. CPI(M) Kannur District Secretary K.K. Ragesh said the ED raids are part of a design by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to politically target Vijayan and the Left party. He said the action was similar to the way former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party were targeted using central investigative agencies. Ragesh also alleged that the Congress and the BJP were colluding to destroy the CPI(M). The current Kerala CM aspirant V.D. Satheesan and V.D. Savarkar seem to share more than just similar initials. It is already evident that Satheesan is working hand in hand with the BJP, he said. (With inputs from Nirmal Jovial)
ED Raids Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans Residence Amid Ongoing Investigation
Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: Former Kerala Chief Minister and senior CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan has come under scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). On Wednesday, ED officials conducted a raid at Vijayans residence in Thiruvananthapuram as part of an investigation into the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment case. According to information from the ED, simultaneous raids are being ... Read more ED Raids Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans Residence Amid Ongoing Investigation
CPI(M) condemns ED raid on former CM Vijayan
ED Raids Ex-Kerala CM Pinarayis House in Money Laundering Case
It is alleged that a private company named Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd (CMRL), made an illegal payment of Rs 1.72 crore to Vijayan's daughter T Veena's company -- Exalogic Solutions
CMRL case: ED raids former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans residence
The raids came a day after the Kerala High Court allowed the ED to continue its investigation into the alleged transactions between Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) and Exalogic Solutions
ED searches ex-Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans residence, others
Thiruvananthapuram: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday, May 27, conducted searches at the residence of former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and others as part of its investigation into the CMRL money laundering case, officials said. They said a total of 10 premsies in the state, including Vijayans rental house in the state capital here, are 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 .
ED searches ex-Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's residence, others in CMRL money laundering case
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at 10 premises, including the rental house of former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, in connection with a money laundering case. The investigation centers on allegations of an illegal payment of Rs 1.72 crore by CMRL to Vijayan's daughter's company, Exalogic Solutions, for services not rendered.
Probe Agency Raids Ex-Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's House
Suresh Gopi welcomes Vijay's party's entry into Kerala
Union Minister Suresh Gopi urged patience for Chief Minister Vijay's administration, stating it's too early for criticism and he deserves time to prove himself. Gopi also welcomed Vijay's party potentially expanding into Kerala, emphasizing freedom for political growth. Meanwhile, Malayalam stars Mammootty and Mohanlal offered contrasting views on Vijay's political journey and enduring stardom.
'Drishyam 3' BO day 6: Mohanlal's film sees 16.2% drop
Mohanlal's 'Drishyam 3' maintains a strong box office presence, earning Rs 6.45 crore on its sixth day despite a typical weekday dip. The thriller has now amassed Rs 68.60 crore domestically and crossed Rs 170 crore globally. Kerala leads the impressive performance, with evening and night shows showing high occupancy, hinting at continued audience engagement.
New Delhi, May 27: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan made his first official visit to New Delhi on Tuesday since taking office. During this visit, he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss the states financial situation, pending projects, and the roadmap for future development. After the meetings, Satheesan ... Read more Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan Discusses Financial Crisis with PM Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
BJP Legislators Demand CBI Investigation into Sabarimala Gold Scam
Thiruvananthapuram, May 26: BJP legislators in Kerala have intensified their demand for a CBI investigation into the Sabarimala gold scam. On Tuesday, they wrote to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, urging an immediate inquiry and the unconditional withdrawal of all cases against devotees involved in the Sabarimala movement. BJP legislator V. Muraleedharan accused Satheesan of hypocrisy, ... Read more BJP Legislators Demand CBI Investigation into Sabarimala Gold Scam
Kerala University accords farewell to graduating international students
Eighth Graders Plea to Kerala CM: Bring My Parents Closer
She believes the Chief Minister will read her letter and help
Five Police Officers Suspended Following Attack on Youth Congress Workers
Thiruvananthapuram, May 26: Five police officers, including a security personnel for former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, have been suspended following an attack on two Youth Congress workers during the Nava Kerala Yatra organized by the previous LDF government. The suspended officers are Anil Kumar, Sandeep, Vipin, Shyaju, and Arun, pending a departmental inquiry. This action ... Read more Five Police Officers Suspended Following Attack on Youth Congress Workers
UDF will clarify stance on PM SHRI soon: Minister
Ernakulam Jn.-Chennai Egmore special train on May 31
Mundamveli residents lay day-long siege to GCDA office
Residents raise fresh concerns over the alleged violation of mandatory distance norms separating the 110 kV EHT line passing through their neighbourhood from the twin towers. They allege that the construction has put lives and properties at risk
Kerala Chief Minister misleading people in Munambam issue, alleges CPI(M)
Chief Minister, who had earlier offered to resolve the issue in 10 minutes, should explore the possibilities for solvingit rather than complicating it. The government should attempt to find a lasting solution to the issue through legal means, says CPI(M) Ernakulam district secretariat
Home nurse, friend arrested for alleged robbery of ornaments
Ambulance used as drug carrier: two held with MDMA in Thrissur
The police seize 8.5 lakh worth narcotics during highway check
Brutal Assault on Youth Congress Workers During Nava Kerala Yatra
Keala Five cops, including former Kerala CM's gunman, suspended
Hip and knee replacements done via robotic surgery at MCH a success
Labour welfare boards will be strengthened: Minister Bindu Krishna
Government will actively seek the opinions of trade unions regarding the Justice Gopala Gowda Committee report, says Minister
T. N. Prathapan files complaint over fake social media campaign claiming party exit
ed-probe-linked-to-veena-vijayan-case-gets-major-boost-as-kerala-high-court-rejects-cmrls-petition
In a significant setback to Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) as well as former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, the Kerala High Court on Tuesday dismissed a writ petition filed by the company and its top executives seeking to quash the Enforcement Directorates (ED) money laundering investigation. The EDs probe stems from findings of a 2019 Income Tax raid on CMRL, which allegedly revealed that the company had inflated expenditures by over Rs 133.82 crore between 201213 and 201819 by booking bogus expenses under transportation and sludge-handling heads. The cash generated was reportedly used for illegal payments to politicians, political parties, media houses, and public servants. A particularly damaging allegation involves Rs 1.72 crore paid by CMRL to Exalogic Solutions Pvt Ltd, a company owned by Veena Vijayan, daughter of Pinarayi Vijayan. The company claimed the payment was for software services, but investigations found that no such services were actually rendered. The Interim Board for Settlement (Income Tax) accepted the findings of the Income Tax Department regarding the inflation of expenses by CMRL, the generation of cash for illegal payments, and the fictitious payment of Rs 1.72 crore to Veena Vijayan and her company, M/s Exalogic Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The Settlement Commission also disallowed 30 per cent of the expenses claimed by CMRL as eligible expenses. The EDs money laundering probe is now linked to this transaction. The summons issued by the ED to CMRL officials specifically demanded documents relating to agreements and payments made to Exalogic Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and Veena Vijayan. Notably, the court, in its verdict delivered today, held that the writ petition challenging the ECIR registered by the ED and the summons issued under Section 50 of the PMLA was premature. The court observed that the mere issuance of a summons does not create a cause of action for invoking writ jurisdiction. It also ruled that the immunity granted to CMRL by the Income Tax Settlement Commission does not extend to proceedings under the PMLA, as the two statutes operate independently. The Settlement Commission constituted under Section 245B of the Income Tax Act has not been vested with any power to deal with complaints regarding money laundering and can only deal with settlement of cases [under the Income Tax Act], the court observed. Dismissing the writ petition, the court clarified that the ED can initiate inquiries and issue summons even in the absence of a formal FIR for a scheduled offence. The court noted that the existence of an FIR is not a precondition for issuing a summons under Section 50 of the PML Act. Notably, during the pendency of the petition, the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) filed a complaint alleging fraud under Section 447 of the Companies Act an offence scheduled under the PMLA. The SFIO made this move on April 3, 2025. The court considered this subsequent event and held that it further strengthened the EDs case. After the court pronounced its decision, the CMRL sought a 2-week extension of the interim order passed by the Court, deferring the summoning of the CMRL officials till the disposal of the plea. However, the Court did not grant this extension and orally remarked that extending the stay was not justified as the ED cannot take coercive action (like forcing appearance or arrest) without issuing a fresh notice or summons. The court also said that if and when the ED issues a new notice, CMRL can always approach the court again if needed.
Farmers in Idukki hopeful as Forests Minister calls meeting to address wildlife conflict
Minister to hold a meeting with representatives from various farmers and planters associations on Wednesday in Thiruvananthapuram
Satheesan meets Modi, Nirmala; seeks Central support for States key projects
Kerala Chief Minister discusses with Centre the impact of fluctuations in crude oil prices and shortfall in NRI remittances on the States economy; Chief Minister says White Paper on Keralas financial situation will be released by the first week of June
Palakkad-Ernakulam MEMU service upgraded with 12-car rake
Youth run over by train in Kasaragod
Kollam district records 78.79% pass percentage in Plus Two
Kerala Unveils Project Zero To Root Out Corruption; Promises Rs 5,000 Reward for Whistleblowers
The previous LDF government often took pride in calling Kerala the least corrupt state in the country. Transparency International, which releases annual rankings on corruption, reported that Kerala had the lowest corruption level at 20 per cent.
Abdul Rahims release order signed
Landslip threat along NH service road at Chala in Kannur raises safety concerns
Tension escalates in Thiruvananthapuram after SFI-KSU clash; SFI alleges selective police action
Internal friction deepens within CPI Idukki unit
AthirappillyValparai road closed for repair works
Tourist traffic halted at check posts in Malakkappara and Vazhachal as authorities impose restriction
Dengue cases on the rise in Kerala
Kerala sees a jump in confirmed dengue cases from 295 in February to 670 by May 25.
72.49% pass in Kerala VHSE exams
As many as 25,259 students had appeared for the examinations, and 18,311 qualified8,595 girls (83.58%) and 9,716 boys (64.88%)
VACB launches Project Zero to make Kerala corruption-free
Kozhikode registers 80.62% pass in Class XII exams
