Thiruvananthapuram: The Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, found himself in a tight position after a Muslim League MLA, K. M. Shaji, accused him of misappropriating money from the CM’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF), which is meant to give emergency assistance to families and individuals affected by natural calamities, accidents, or medical treatment for major diseases.
According to the MLA, the diverted fund has been allegedly used to pay for advocates appearing on behalf of communist leaders involved in the murder of political opponents. Some funds were also utilized to pay-off debts of an MLA belonging to the communist party.
In a press meet at Kozhikode, K. M. Shaji revealed that Rs. 2 crores was paid by the government to Adv. Rajith Kumar to defend communist party workers who killed Ariyil Shukoor (IUML) and Mohammad Shuhaib (Congress).
Shaji also challenged the Chief Minister to reveal the source of the money if it is not from the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund.
He also alleged that a sum of Rs. 25 lakh was spent to clear-off debts of an MLA belonging to the communist party.
Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, finds himself in a difficult position as he struggles to give clear answers to K. M. Shaji’s allegations. These fresh allegations are turning into a major setback for the government as questions are raised about the transparency of the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund.
