THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said a serious investigation will be conducted against IAS officer Sriram Venkitaraman, who is the main accused in the car accident caused by his alleged drunk driving that killed journalist K M Basheer.

“Nobody will be allowed to dilute the investigation. If any such attempt is made, strong action will be taken against that person,” he said.
The chief minister said the matters related to rendering financial help to the family of the journalist is under consideration of the government and reiterated that insurance scheme for journalists will be introduced in order to secure their life.

Pinarayi said, “the initial assessment is that IAS officer Sriram Venkittaraman drove the car after drinking excess quantity of liquor. The terms of reference include many things including the circumstances that led to his driving the car in inebriated condition.

The flaw from the police including the delay in conducting the blood test will be specially investigated. A special team will be appointed to investigate the case.”