"Vigilance probe against Gyanesh Kumar was not properly pursued in 2006 case": Congress' Malayinkeezhu Venugopal
Congress leader Malayinkeezhu Venugopal seeks revival of a 2006 corruption probe against CEC Gyanesh Kumar regarding KSTP project irregularities.
Congress leader Malayinkeezhu Venugopal has leveled serious allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, claiming that a 2006 vigilance inquiry into his conduct was never properly concluded. Venugopal alleges that irregularities and criminal misconduct occurred during Kumar's tenure as the Kerala Public Works Department (PWD) Secretary.
Allegations of Unfinished Investigations
In a formal complaint submitted to Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on October 2, Venugopal asserted that several charges of corruption and misconduct involving Kumar were not adequately investigated when they first surfaced. The Congress leader is calling for the revival or a fresh examination of these old inquiries to ensure accountability.
Speaking to the media, Venugopal emphasized that his actions are driven by a duty to oppose illegal practices rather than political rivalry. “It is not a political vendetta. Though I am a Congressman, I am also participating in all these activities against illegal practices of the Chief Election Commissioner,” he stated.
The KSTP Project and the Malaysian Engineer's Death
A central pillar of the complaint involves the Kerala State Transport Project (KSTP) and the Indo-Malaysian joint venture, PATI-BEL, which was tasked with upgrading state highways. At the time, Kumar was serving as the PWD Secretary and Chief Director of the KSTP.
The allegations include the following points:
- Undue Influence: Kumar is accused of exerting improper pressure over the highway project.
- Harassment and Bribery: The complaint alleges that Kumar harassed officials and sought illegal gratification.
- Financial Pressure: It is claimed that government bills totaling approximately Rs 12-13 crore were withheld from the firm, causing significant financial strain.
The controversy is further heightened by the tragic death of Lee See Ben, the chief project manager of the PATI-BEL joint venture. Venugopal alleged that after returning to his native Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Lee died by suicide in November 2006.
Suicide Notes Mentioning Alleged Harassment
According to the complaint, Lee See Ben left behind two suicide notes—one addressed to his wife and another to his company's chief. Venugopal claims these notes specifically mentioned Kumar and detailed instances of harassment and demands for bribes.
The Congress leader argues that because the previous state-mandated vigilance inquiry was not conducted thoroughly, the contents of these suicide notes warrant a renewed investigation. He has requested the Home Minister to re-enquire into the matter to protect the integrity of public administration.
Context of the Complaint
While these allegations surface amidst broader political debates regarding the Election Commission's functions, Venugopal clarified that his petition is strictly focused on the events surrounding the 2006 KSTP project and Kumar's role as PWD Secretary. He framed his intervention as a civic duty, stating, “I am a political man. I am a Gandhian activist... It is my duty as a citizen, I am doing this.”
Note: The allegations regarding criminal misconduct in the awarding of public works and the details contained in the suicide notes have been raised in the complaint and have not been independently established.