The Enforcement Directorate has requested the Kerala Police to register an FIR against former CM Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T Veena, and son-in-law Riyas in connection with the CMRL bribery scandal.

  • ED has requested Kerala Police to file an FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, T Veena, and PA Mohammed Riyas.
  • The case involves alleged fraudulent payments of ₹2.78 crore by Cochin Minerals.
  • Handwritten notes regarding fund transfers to Dubai were seized during previous raids.

In a major escalation of the ongoing investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally requested the Kerala Director General of Police to register a First Information Report (FIR) against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T Veena, and son-in-law PA Mohammed Riyas. This move pertains to the high-profile CMRL-linked bribery case.

The agency issued this communication under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This provision empowers the agency to share findings with law enforcement bodies to initiate fresh criminal proceedings based on material recovered during their investigation.

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Historical Background and Investigation Details

The core of the allegation rests on transactions involving the Kerala-based mining firm, Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. The ED alleges that the firm made fraudulent payments totaling ₹2.78 crore to Exalogic Solutions—a company formerly owned by T Veena—under the guise of 'IT consultancy services'.

During searches conducted in June at Veena's residence in Thiruvananthapuram, investigators reportedly seized 'handwritten' notes. According to statements released by the agency, these documents contained critical details regarding specific fund transfers made to Dubai, suggesting a complex web of money laundering.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this development marks a critical turning point in the legal battles facing the Kerala leadership. The involvement of the former Chief Minister's immediate family elevates the case from a corporate bribery probe to a significant political crisis that could impact regional stability and governance.

The strategic use of PMLA Section 66(2) indicates that the ED has uncovered substantial material evidence that warrants a formal criminal investigation by the state police.

The CPI(M) has reacted strongly to the move, labeling the investigation as a blatant case of 'political vendetta'. Party leaders, including State Secretary MV Govindan, have maintained that the central agency is being weaponized to target political opponents and their families.

Did You Know?: Under the PMLA, once an FIR is registered based on agency findings, the ED can further expand its probe to include all linked assets and transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are the primary individuals named in the ED's request?
The request names former CM Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T Veena, and his son-in-law PA Mohammed Riyas.

2. What is the alleged source of the bribe?
The ED alleges that Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd transferred ₹2.78 crore to Veena's defunct company for fake IT services.