Kerala Congress cautions against hasty graft case against ex-CM Vijayan

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee has advised restraint in responding to an Enforcement Directorate report recommending criminal proceedings against Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena, and son-in-law P.A. Mohamed Riyas—the state's former Tourism Minister—in connection with alleged irregularities in the CMRL-Exalogic transaction.

The Congress-led UDF government that currently governs Kerala is opting for a cautious path forward, seeking to balance legal requirements with political considerations as it evaluates the ED's recommendations. Party leaders have indicated that any decision on filing a formal case will follow thorough examination rather than immediate action.

The CMRL-Exalogic case involves allegations of financial misconduct during Vijayan's tenure as Chief Minister. The ED's report, which recommends case registration, has intensified political pressure on the state government to act, but Congress leadership believes hasty moves could invite legal complications.

The case represents a significant test of governance for the sitting UDF administration, which must navigate the intersection of rule of law enforcement and political accountability while managing intra-alliance dynamics. The party's emphasis on caution suggests it will seek legal counsel before proceeding with any formal action against the former communist chief minister and his family.