Govt orders Vigilance probe against CPI(M) leader P.P. Divya

THE Keralam government has given the green light for a Vigilance probe against senior CPI(M) leader and former Kannur District Panchayat president P.P. Divya over alleged irregularities during her tenure.

The investigation follows a complaint alleging financial irregularities in the awarding of contracts by the district panchayat, including contracts reportedly given to a carton company without following tender procedures.

The allegations also include irregularities in the installation of modular toilets in schools under the district panchayat, the acquisition of property at Palakkayamthatt, and the construction of an Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre at Padiyur.

The complainant has alleged that the carton company, Carton India Alliance Pvt Ltd, was linked to Divya through a benami arrangement. The allegations also concern the assets of Divya and her husband.

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau had conducted a preliminary inquiry and reportedly found the allegations serious enough to warrant a detailed investigation. The Home Department has now granted approval for further investigation.

The allegations relate to the period 2023–24. The probe is expected to examine the contracts and other transactions in question. The allegations have yet to be established through the investigation.