THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala cabinet has announced a three-level inquiry into the disruption of the Thrissur Pooram festival. No deadline has been set for the completion of the investigation.
The inquiry will be spearheaded by the Crime Branch under the direction of ADGP H. Venkatesh, focusing on the conspiracy and crimes aimed at destabilizing the Pooram festivities. Concurrently, Intelligence Chief Manoj Abraham will investigate the lapses of officials across various departments responsible for the project's execution. Additionally, Superintendent of Police Sheikh Darvesh Sahib will look into the actions of ADGP M.R. Ajithkumar.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan confirmed that the DGP's report, which highlighted several lapses by Ajithkumar—most notably his failure to arrive at the Pooram despite being in Thrissur—was submitted for further scrutiny. The DGP, after an initial inspection, chose to investigate the matter again, ensuring that the inquiry will be impartial. The Chief Minister emphasized that a thorough report is necessary for taking any action against Ajith, stating, "No one will receive any protection in this regard. A decision will be made as soon as the report is received."
In response to questions regarding Ajith’s reported meeting with RSS leaders, the Chief Minister stated that any conclusions regarding the meeting would only be drawn after reviewing the inquiry report. "Rushing to a conclusion now would undermine the investigation," he added.
Ajith’s initial report attributed the chaos at the Pooram to the inexperience and lack of decisiveness of Commissioner Ankit Ashok, who allegedly altered the security scheme at the last minute. Ajith defended himself in the report while clearing the IG and DIG of wrongdoing. However, the DGP and the Home Secretary rejected Ajith’s report, recommending a comprehensive investigation into the matter, including potential conspiracies.
Reports indicate that despite arriving in Thrissur two days prior to the event, Ajith did not assess the situation on Pooram Day. He was also noted to have remained inactive during a crisis that unfolded just six kilometers from his location, leading to difficulties in communication when three ministers attempted to reach him but found their calls unanswered.