Close with CM, Sivasankar is person with strong influence even in ruling party, says HC; bail denied

KOCHI: The High Court on Thursday said that M Sivasankar is a person with strong influence even in the ruling party. The court made the observation on the order denying bail to M Sivasankar, the former Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, in the Life Mission bribery case. The court observed that if Sivasankar is released on bail, there is a possibility that he may destroy evidence and influence witnesses.

Sivasankar is close with the Chief Minister and has influence in the ruling party. The order also indicates that Sivasankar had returned to an important government post even after arrest and imprisonment.

"Sivasankar continued his official career until he retired from office while the allegations regarding the crimes were pending. Even if he had been involved in crimes before, it did not affect his professional life in any way. This shows his influence," the court observed.

Meanwhile, the court expressed displeasure over the fact that Swapna Suresh was not arrested in the Life Mission bribery case. The court also told the Enforcement DIrectorate that it was surprising that the accused, including Swapna, were not arrested despite having strong evidence regarding their involvement.