Kerala: Nilambur MLA P V Anwar snaps ties with ruling LDF, alleges corruption

Defying the gag order of the ruling front, Anwar stated at a press conference in Malappuram on Thursday that he would not participate in the LDF legislature party meeting and would not resign as MLA, emphasizing that the title 'MLA' was bestowed upon him by the people.

Anwar has scheduled a public meeting in Nilambur on Sunday, where he is anticipated to reveal his future political direction.

Anwar accused the chief minister of unduly protecting Public Works Department Minister Muhammed Riyas because he is his son-in-law. He claimed that this favoritism is undermining the party system for the sake of one individual.

He further alleged that the chief minister was aware of the gold smuggling operations, asserting that such knowledge disqualifies him from continuing to oversee the home department.

Anvar criticized Pinarayi Vijayan, stating that despite leading the LDF to a significant victory in 2021, his popularity has now plummeted to zero.

He criticised the CM for not acting on his petition against the political secretary and ADGP (Law and Order) M R Ajith Kumar in which the MLA had levelled serious allegations. Anvar expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Minister's response to his concerns.

He repeated his accusation against the CM's political secretary P Sasi, labeling him a "bandit." Disappointed with the CPM leadership, Anvar stated that his only remaining option was to approach the High Court, calling for an investigation into the assets of P Sasi and ADGP Ajith Kumar.

Anvar stated that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan should resign from the home portfolio, citing his lack of awareness about the irregularities occurring right under his watch. "He has no right to retain the home portfolio," he declared.

He stated that only the Chief Minister could speak positively about P Sasi. If the deterioration within the party and government persists, Pinarayi may end up being the last Chief Minister from the CPM in Kerala, he said.

Anvar stated that even the top CPM leaders in Kerala, such as state secretary M V Govindan Master, were hesitant to speak out against the wrongs. "ADGP Ajith Kumar refers to the Chief Minister as 'Uncle'. Pinarayi is influenced by a coterie. The Chief Minister was once a fiery sun, but now that fire has dimmed."

He stated that despite presenting significant evidence, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has allocated six months for the investigation against ADGP Ajith Kumar. The ADGP ought to have been suspended immediately due to the serious allegations against him. Nevertheless, the Chief Minister is evidently supporting him.

CPM, Congress reaction

CPM State Secretary M.V. Govindan stated that despite explicit instructions, the MLA persisted in making statements against the party and government. He has made allegations that not even the opposition would suggest.

"I will look into the matter thoroughly and issue a statement on Friday. The party will make an appropriate decision after reviewing the issue," he declared.

In response to Anvar's allegations, LDF Convenor T P Ramakrishnan suggested that the MLA might be aiding the party's adversaries. He asserted that such baseless claims could not damage the Chief Minister's reputation. Pinarayi Vijayan remains a prominent figure, bolstered by the substantial support of Kerala's populace, and remains unaffected by isolated accusations.

PCC President K Sudhakaran described the issues highlighted by Anvar as serious. He stated that Anvar's disclosures have laid bare the corruption within the party and the LDF Government. On the possibility of the Congress-led UDF backing Anvar, Sudhakaran remarked that it was premature to make any statements, adding that these matters would be deliberated in upcoming leadership meetings.

The upcoming Kerala Assembly session, starting on October 4, is anticipated to be eventful, with the opposition expected to raise the allegations made by the MLA.

BJP State President K Surendran has accused the ruling LDF of being openly corrupt. He said the chief minister and CPM owed an explanation to the people of Kerala on the serious allegations levelled by the MLA.