CPM relieved with SNC Lavalin verdict

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The High Court verdict on SNC Lavalin case has come as a huge relief for LDF particularly the CPM ahead of the crucial Assembly elections.

It goes without saying that the LDF was awaiting the SNC Lavalin verdict as anxiously as the UDF since their electoral strategies hinged very much on its outcome. The CPM leadership is relieved since the case has now been posted after two months.

But what is more significant from their point of view is the court’s warning to the Government through its counsel, that judiciary should not be used for political end.

The court’s observations have given a shot in the arm for CPM which has all along been accusing the Chandy government of foisting a politically motivated case. The CPM leaders say the court has ratified their position. As for CPM politburo member Pinarayi Vijayan, the verdict undoubtedly paves the way for leading LDF’s electoral battle.

The CPM is gearing up to use the issue as a major campagin plank. Kodiyeri has alleged that the chief minister had intervened in the case bypassing the home department.

He demanded the resignation of Director General of Prosecution who had submitted the plea for advancing the case. He said DGP Asif Ali had misused his position for political reasons.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that the High Court verdict on SNC Lavalin case was not a setback for the state government.

When asked about Judge’s reprimand that court should not be used for political end and there was no urgency in hearing the revision petition, he said the UDF Government did not believe in applauding the courts for favourable judgement and criticising the adverse verdicts.

“We take corrective measures if there is any lapse,” he hastened to add. His Cabinet colleague K C Joseph has been asked to appear next month in a contempt case. The minister had criticised a court judgement recently.
 
Chandy refused to comment on the reports that he had bypassed the home department, home secretary and law secretary while pushing for the pleas for early hearing.