Probe Jacob Thomas land deal: Plea
The HC is likely to consider the petition this week.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A probe has been sought into a shady land deal in Rajapalayam in Tamilnadu, allegedly made by Vigilance director Jacob Thomas in 2001. In a petition moved at the High Court by petitioner Michael Varghese, it was alleged that a fictitious address was shown in deeds pertaining to the land deal with an intention to cheat the government and public by hiding or misleading his identity. According to sources, about 50 acres at Rajapalayam in Tamilnadu was purchased in the name of 'Dr. Jacob Thomas, Director, ISRA Agro Tech Systems Pvt. Ltd. residing at S/79, Ist Floor, GCDA Commercial Complex, P.B. No. 2710, Marine drive, Cochin 682031, Kerala State' in 2001.
It was alleged to be that of the Vigilance director as he was reportedly serving as an honorary management consultant of Isra Agro Tech Systems Private during the period in question. According to the petition filed at the High Court a responsible enquiry was required to ascertain whether it is a benami transaction or a clandestine deal in a fictitious address. 40 to 50 acres, which is now mango orchard in Rajapalayam, is worth Rs. 4 to 5 crore, said the petition.
Though DC repeatedly tried to get the version of Mr. Jacob Thomas, he declined to comment on the matter. Mr. Michael moved the HC challenging an order of the enquiry commissioner and special court in Muvattupuzha rejecting a petition seeking a probe into alleged corruption by Mr. Thomas during his tenure as Ports Director. The HC is likely to consider the petition this week.