Youth Congress complaint: Vigilance seeks permission for enquiry against EP Jayarajan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The complaint filed by Youth Congress against LDF Convener EP Jayarajan alleging corruption in granting permission to build ‘Vaidekam’ resort in Kannur has been sent by Vigilance director Manoj Abraham to government seeking enquiry approval. According to Section 17(A) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, the Vigilance requires permission from the higher authority to investigate and file cases against the Chief Minister, Ministers, MLAs and MPs, public servants and officials. According to this, the complaint of Youth Congress State General Secretary Jobin Jacob was sent to the Home Department.

The complaint demands to file a case against EP Jayarajan under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The complaint also points out that the resort is operating within the limits of Anthur Municipality without following the rules and without obtaining necessary permissions. Environmental clearances for its construction and operation have not been obtained. Despite knowing that the functioning of the resort was not legal, the municipality did not take any action.

Under the influence of former minister EP Jayarajan, the municipal chairperson, secretary and officials were involved in conspiracy and corruption and granted permission for the resort. There are allegations of serious corruption and violations of law included in the complaint. The same complaint has been sent to the Chief Minister, Home Secretary and District Collector.

Govt stance is crucial

• The government has not accepted the applications of Vigilance, including permission for investigation and prosecution recently, except against the leaders of the opposition. 153 applications are pending inthe Home Department. Due to this, vigilance cannot file a case or investigate even if it gets details about corruption.
• According to the central law amendment, the government has a time limit of three months to grant permission for prosecution and probe applications. If permission is denied, the complainant can approach the High Court. Therefore, applications are often shelved without a decision. Not much permission has been given for four years.