New Inquiry to Examine Possible Interference in 2006 Vigilance Probe of Kerala Official

Kerala authorities have launched a new inquiry to determine whether the 2006 vigilance investigation into former Chief Election Commissioner Ganesha Kumar was subject to external influence. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced the development in the state assembly, stressing that the pursuit of crime is an ongoing effort.

The probe follows a petition filed by Congress legislator Malayankizhu Venugopal, which called for a review of the earlier case. The latest investigation will scrutinise the procedures of the original probe and assess any possible pressure that may have altered its outcome.

The controversy also involves the 2006 suicide of Malaysian civil engineer Lee Si Bin, associated with the Kerala State Transport Project's MC Road upgrade. The Home Department has requested all related records from the previous vigilance inquiry.

Chennithala reaffirmed his earlier directive to the vigilance director to conduct a comprehensive examination and to act on any conclusions. He highlighted the importance of addressing any claims of outside interference with utmost seriousness.