ED likely to book Kerala CM’s daughter in money laundering case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is likely to register a money laundering case against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter, T Veena, according to a recent report by The Indian Express. The development comes after the central agency began investigating an alleged illegal payment case involving Veena in March 2024 following a complaint from politician PC George’s son, Shone George.
The Serious Fraud Investigation Organisation (SFIO) has already registered a case against Veena, which is likely to pave the way for the ED to book her under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The SFIO case was registered based on a complaint filed by Shone George, who alleged that Veena had made illegal payments to unknown persons.
The ED had initiated a probe into the matter after it received a complaint from Shone George, who claimed that Veena had made large cash payments to unknown individuals. The agency had then summoned Veena for questioning, during which she had denied any wrongdoing.
However, the ED’s investigation has revealed that Veena had allegedly made payments to unknown persons, which raises suspicions of money laundering. The agency is likely to book Veena under the PMLA, which makes it a criminal offense to engage in money laundering activities.
The ED’s move to book Veena under the PMLA is seen as a significant development in the case, as it could lead to her arrest and imprisonment if convicted. The agency’s decision to pursue the case against Veena is also significant, as it reflects the government’s commitment to combating corruption and money laundering.
The case against Veena is the latest in a series of high-profile corruption scandals to rock Kerala’s political circles. The state has been plagued by corruption allegations in recent years, with several high-ranking politicians and officials being accused of embezzling public funds.
Veena’s alleged involvement in the illegal payment case has sparked widespread outrage in Kerala, with many calling for her to be held accountable for her actions. The case has also raised questions about the state government’s handling of corruption allegations, with many accusing the government of protecting its own officials and politicians.
The ED’s investigation into the case is ongoing, and it is likely to take several months to complete. The agency has already collected a significant amount of evidence, including financial records and witness statements, which it will use to build its case against Veena.
In the meantime, Veena has denied any wrongdoing and has claimed that she is being targeted by political opponents. Her supporters have also rallied around her, accusing the ED of being biased and political.
While the case against Veena is significant, it is also part of a larger trend of corruption and money laundering in Kerala’s political circles. The state’s politicians and officials have long been accused of embezzling public funds and engaging in corrupt practices, and the case against Veena is just the latest example of this.
In conclusion, the ED’s decision to book Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan’s daughter T Veena in a money laundering case is a significant development in the state’s ongoing battle against corruption. The case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in politics, and serves as a reminder that no one is above the law.
