CPM rebuts role in Jacob Thomas exit

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan on Saturday said the party had not interfered in matters of transfers, postings or shifting of bureaucrats. He said such decisions were left to the government. Kodiyeri’s reaction came in the wake of reports that Jacob Thomas had been shifted following his refusal to water down the nepotism charges against former minister E.P. Jayarajan. The former vigilance director had reportedly taken a tough position on Jayarajan case which was contrary to that of a section of CPM leaders especially those from Kannur.

The Kannur strongman was forced to resign following the appointment of Kannur MP P.K. Sreemathy's son Sudheer Nambiar as managing director of a Kerala State Industrial Enterprices (KSIE) in violation of norms. Meanwhile, power minister M.M. Mani confirmed that the government had given marching orders to the vigilance director. The officer had fought against corruption and his behaviour in some cases might have invited sharp criticism from a section of bureaucracy and courts. He said the court had recently asked why the officer had not been shifted out yet. Removing an officer is not a big thing for a government, he added. Mr Mani said while the government would go forward taking officials into confidence, no one should expect it to butter up officials or treat them like Gods.  In case of any lapse they will be removed, he added.