Political Storm Brews Over ED's Clean Chit in Kodakara Case

The CPI(M) and Congress-led UDF in Kerala criticized the Enforcement Directorate for allegedly exonerating the BJP in the Kodakara black money case, accusing the agency of targeting opposition figures for political gains. Both parties also exchanged accusations of colluding with the BJP.

In Kerala, political tensions flared as the ruling CPI(M) and the Congress-led UDF opposition collectively criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over its reported exoneration of the BJP in the Kodakara black money case. The parties accused the agency of bias, claiming its actions serve political ends by targeting non-BJP leaders.

V D Satheesan, the Leader of Opposition, expressed disillusionment with the ED's integrity in a statement from Kollam, noting that the agency's conduct obliterates its credibility as an impartial entity. Echoing these concerns, CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan accused the ED of engaging in politically motivated operations designed to protect BJP leaders.

Allegations flew as both CPI(M) and UDF, constituents of the INDIA bloc, accused each other of subterfuge with the BJP. While Congress leader Satheesan claimed collusion between CPI(M) and BJP, Govindan countered by suggesting Congress leaders had links to the scandal. The backdrop to these claims is the contested Kodakara case, involving a 2021 highway robbery where Rs 3.5 crore intended for electioneering was allegedly stolen.

(With inputs from agencies.)