Vigilance probe begins in AI camera deal; investigation on irregularities in Safe Kerala scheme

THIRUVNANTHAPURAM: An investigation by the vigilance has started in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) camera dealings. An investigation is being conducted into the irregularities in the SAFE Kerala scheme. The government has now given permission for the vigilance to conduct a preliminary inspection.

It is reported that the government had given permission for a detailed investigation on the irregularities in March itself. The vigilance is entering into the investigation procedures only now. The investigation is on the complaint against the former Joint Transport Commissioner Rajeevan Puthalam. Six allegations were leveled against Puthalam and a clerk in the transport commissioner's office.

It is alleged that there is corruption in the purchase of cameras, laptops and vehicles. Even though it is an investigation on the complaint against the officer, the vigilance will have to investigate matters like how the AI camera came to the deal and the tender process.

Meantime, opposition leader V D Satheesan said the documents prove that the tender procedures for buying AI camera is not transparent. In a press meet, he demanded to clarify who is behind Prasadia and their political connections, who are getting profit share without investing money in the consortium.

Among the four companies that participated in the tender, Gujarat Infotech Limited was excluded. Of the remaining three companies, Keltron awarded the contract to SRIT. Ashoka Buildcon cme second and Akshara Enterprises third. Ashoka Buildcon is the company subcontracted by SRIT to K-FON. The opposition also has proof that Akshara Enterprises is connected with SRIT. Satheesan also said that two other companies were used to get the tender for SRIT.