Kerala minister's relative vows legal battle against ED inquiry allegations

Riyas, who serves as MLA from Beypore and holds ministerial credentials within the communist party hierarchy, issued a defiant statement through social media challenging the investigation's findings. The CPI(M) figure questioned the authenticity of information emerging from the ED probe, characterizing it as leaked material designed to damage his reputation.

In his public statement, Riyas expressed concern about what he termed sensationalized reporting of investigative details, asserting that such disclosures were being used to harm individuals unfairly. He indicated his intention to pursue a comprehensive legal defence against any charges that may emerge from the federal agency's inquiry.

The case relates to allegations involving the Chennai Metro Rail Limited project, though specific details regarding the charges remain under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. The involvement of a relative of Kerala's chief minister has drawn significant political attention in the state, adding another dimension to ongoing scrutiny of senior party officials.

Riyas's statement represents a preemptive response from the CPI(M) camp, signalling the party's determination to contest what it characterizes as an unfounded investigation. The legislator's assertion of his legal rights comes amid broader political tensions in Kerala regarding federal agency inquiries into state-level officials.