Justice Unveiled: Vigilance Court Orders Powerful Probe into Kochi Mayor’s Shocking Corruption Allegations
The Enquiry Commissioner and Special Judge (Vigilance) in Muvattupuzha has deemed an investigation into Kochi Mayor V.K. Minimol “highly necessary” following a corruption complaint. The allegations stem from claims made by B.B. Ajayan, the secretary of the Peringottu Residents Association in Palarivattom, who asserts that Minimol accepted money while serving as a corporation councillor. The funds were reportedly linked to the restoration of a local road, which had been damaged during the transport of construction materials for a nearby flat.
In 2018, during a residents’ association meeting, Minimol allegedly assured community members that she would oversee the repair of the affected road. Following this assurance, it is claimed that ₹3 lakh was handed over to her. A company had earlier deposited ₹5 lakh as a security fund intended for the road’s restoration. Subsequently, a contractor hired by the Corporation performed the maintenance work, allegedly at the expense of the Corporation.
After Ajayan filed his complaint, the court initiated a preliminary inquiry, leading to a vigilance inspector’s report that, at first glance, indicated no criminal offense. The inspector noted that while Minimol had accepted the amount, she returned it on February 16, 2021. As a result, no crime was formally registered at that time.
However, the court raised serious concerns regarding Minimol’s actions, stating that, as a public official, she should not have accepted funds in her personal capacity for a public road’s maintenance. The court highlighted that accepting this money while in her official role constituted a prima facie case of criminal misconduct. It determined that the reimbursement after the complaint was filed does not absolve her of potential criminal liability.
The court’s order emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation into the matter but mandated that the complainant first acquire sanction under Section 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act before proceeding. This legal requirement is crucial, as it forms the basis for moving forward with any formal inquiry.
In response to the unfolding situation, Minimol has dismissed the planned vigilance inquiry as biased, arguing that it proceeded without adequately considering her side of the story. She noted that previous complaints filed against her have been rejected due to a lack of evidential support from the complainants. “The association members are well aware of the actual facts,” she stated, maintaining her stance on the matter.
As of now, Minimol has indicated that she has not received any official notice or order pertaining to the vigilance inquiry, but assured that appropriate actions would be taken once an official directive is issued.
This developing story highlights significant issues surrounding public accountability and governance in Kerala, underlining the importance of transparency in public office. As the investigation unfolds, it will be pivotal to observe how these accusations will shape the future of local leadership in Kochi.
Published – March 17, 2026 01:16 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/vigilance-court-orders-probe-against-kochi-mayor-over-corruption-allegation/article70751450.ece
Category : Kerala
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Publish Date: 2026-03-17 01:23:00
