Politically Instigated Litigation': CM Pinarayi Vijayan Tells Kerala High Court In Plea Seeking CBI Probe Into CMRL Case

The Kerala High Court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that seeks a CBI investigation into allegations of illicit payments between a private mining company, Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL), and a firm owned by the daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The PIL alleges that CMRL made payments to the CM's daughter's firm for services that were never rendered. In response, a counter-affidavit has been filed, likely by the respondents, arguing against the need for a CBI probe. The Chief Minister has also publicly stated that the allegations are baseless and politically motivated. The High Court has admitted the PIL and is examining the preliminary evidence and arguments presented by both sides. The court's decision on whether to order a central agency investigation will be a crucial development in this high-profile political and corporate controversy in Kerala.