MALAPPURAM: Reports suggest that Azhikode MLA and UDF’s candidate from the constituency K M Shaji has earned assets against his known sources of income. The preliminary investigation report of the vigilance department states that Shaji has assets and savings which is 166 percent higher than his known sources of income. The highest surge in his assets was witnessed in the period between 2011-20. During this period, K M Shaji’s income was Rs 83, 57, 452 but his total assets worth was Rs 2,03,80,557.

Public activist advocate M R Hareesh had earlier complained before the court citing that K M Shaji has earned assets disproportionate to his income. Advocate Hareesh approached the court as the probe officials didn’t register a case against Shaji even after having prima facie evidence on illegal asset creation.

Following Hareesh’s plea vigilance also submitted a report in the court which said that prima facie evidence is available on Shaji’s illegal earnings. M R Haressh filed the court plea citing that there is a wide disparity in the details of assets given by Shaji in his poll affidavit and total expense incurred in constructing his luxurious home. Following the plea, the corporation also found out that Shaji’s home is worth Rs 1.62 crore but the experts in the construction sector said that the house will costs at least Rs four crore. Vigilance had also questioned other accused in the case including K M Shaji.