Date:02/07/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/07/02/stories/2007070258330400.htm

Kerala

CPI(M) has set an example, says Kodiyeri

Staff Reporter

MALAPPURAM: Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said here on Sunday that the CPI(M) had proved that it was different from other parties by deciding to return the Rs.2-crore bond the party organ Deshabhimani had accepted from a lotte ry agent.

He said although the party accepted donations and contributions from individuals and organisations, it always judged the contributors. He said the party would examine the matter seriously.

The Home Minister, however, said there was no precedence of launching a Vigilance investigation in such matters. There was no investigation into allegations that the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president had obtained money from the managing director of Himalaya Finances. Similarly, there was no inquiry into the allegations that the Indian Union Muslim League had demanded bribe from a Bishop at Meenangadi, he said.

The Home Minister said the CPI(M) had set an example to other parties by deciding to return the bonds for Rs. 2 crore.

Referring to the suspension of Malappuram sub-inspector M. Sasidharan, the Minister said he had taken note of the issue and was examining the matter. He said such departmental actions should not be subject to change by people’s agitations.