'Central government thugs, Satheesan-Modi operation'; CPM workers shout slogans, protest against ED raid

KANNUR: CPM cadres were stunned after news emerged about the Enforcement Directorate raid at the residence of former Chief Minister and Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan. After the initial shock over the central agency breaching what was considered the impregnable fortress in Kannur, cadres formed up in numbers, reacting emotionally and chanting slogans in protest against the raid. Slogans such as 'Central government thugs' were raised. CPM leader P Jayarajan and Kannur CPM district secretary KK Ragesh reached the spot and joined the protest.

CPM workers alleged that the ED's action is politically motivated. More police are likely to be deployed at the spot. Some other CPM party workers alleged that the central government’s shrewd move came after realising CPM’s present vulnerable state following the election defeat. Senior leader P Jayarajan said the move had strong similarity with BJP’s tactic in Tripura that ensured the destruction of CPM in the state.

Senior P Jayarajan responded that the raid was a joint operation between the BJP and the Congress and implicitly mentioned the role of Chief Minister VD Satheesan who had met with PM Modi yesterday in New Delshi.

The High Court on Tuesday rejected the request of Aluva-based Cochin Minerals and Rutiles Limited (CMRL) to cancel the ED investigation in the monthly payment case involving Veena Vijayan. The ED is investigating the monthly payment case under the Money Laundering Act. CMRL approached the court, questioning the summons sent by the ED and demanding the cancellation of the investigation.

The search is being conducted in connection with the monthly payment case involving Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan. The ED action comes a day after the court allowed the central agency to proceed with the investigation in the case. ED officials are now taking Veena's statements in the case. Even after two hours, the raid is continuing in 12 locations across Kerala.