Tharoor: The CPM has come out in support of Higher Education Minister KT Jaleel in the Lokayukta verdict finding him guilty of appointing a relative. Law Minister AK Balan has said that KT Jalil should not resign. Legal action can be taken if there is a court order. AK Balan also clarified that if there is any verdict, he should not resign immediately.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has to take action within three months. If a relative is appointed on deputation it should be questioned in court. This does not mean that a relative should not be appointed on deputation. The problem is if he is not qualified. Relatives have been appointed on deputation, including KM Mani. Jalil has not done anything illegal. K Balan told the media.
Meanwhile, a letter was issued by KT Jalil asking him to change the eligibility criteria according to the qualifications of his cousin KT Abid. The letter was issued to change the eligibility for appointment in the Minority Development Finance Corporation under the Minister. Jalil’s letter came about two months after he took over as minister.