HRDS terminates Swapna, says govt crucifying firm

KOCHI: The HRDS has terminated Swapna Suresh, accused in the gold smuggling case, from their firm. Their explanation was that the investigation against Swapna is affecting their institution. The release issued said the government is constantly hunting and crucifying them. The HRDS has become a victim of state terror. The release said the action is after considering the chief minister’s statement in the assembly as a complaint. Meantime, Swapna will continue in the firm’s advisory panel.

‘M Sivasankar, co-accused in the gold smuggling case along with Swapna and then principal secretary to the chief minister, was reinstated to a top post. So, thought there was nothing wrong in giving a job to Swapna. Sivasankar, who was not acquitted in the case, is back in service and accepting money from pubic exchequer. Salary was given to Swapna from HRDS’ own fund.

Swapna was appointed as CSR director in February at HRDS in Palakkad. She was appointed for a salary of Rs 43,000. The CPM leaders had alleged that the HRDS was behind the allegations levelled by Swapna against the chief minister. The HRDS had arranged legal assistance to Swapna. Swapna, who worked in HRDS for four months in Palakkad, shifted to Kochi last week. She had informed that she was working from home for HRDS.