Enforcement Directorate Probes CMRL Pay-off Case Involving Veena Vijayan
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated an investigation into the alleged monthly pay-off scam, centering around Veena Vijayan, the daughter of Kerala’s Chief Minister. This development follows the findings of both the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and the Income Tax Department, prompting the ED to delve deeper into the matter. Notices are expected to be issued to Veena Vijayan and other implicated individuals in the near future.
Last year, a significant controversy arose when reports surfaced regarding the Cochin Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) allegedly disbursing Rs 1.72 crore to the Chief Minister’s daughter between 2017 and 2020. It was purported that CMRL had engaged Veena’s IT firm for consultancy and software support services, despite no services being rendered. Allegations surfaced that the payments were made on a monthly basis due to her familial ties with a prominent individual.
The ED’s Kochi office has taken charge of the investigation, with reports confirming the registration of an enforcement case information report (ECIR) in connection with the case. Currently, scrutiny is underway into the transactions between Exalogic Solutions, owned by Veena Vijayan, and CMRL, conducted by the SFIO officials on behalf of the central government. As the probe unfolds, stakeholders await further developments in this high-profile case, which has captured significant public attention and raised questions about transparency and accountability in government dealings.
