This Article is From Nov 23, 2015

Opposition Steps up Demand for Excise Minister's Resignation in Kerala

Opposition Steps up Demand for Excise Minister's Resignation in Kerala

The opposition LDF claims that despite specific allegation against Kerala minister, K Babu, a probe as per Vigilance manual was not held.

Thiruvananthapuram: Stepping up its demand for the resignation of Kerala excise minister K Babu over the Bar Bribery scam, opposition CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) today decided to take out a march to the state assembly on November 30 on the opening day of its session.

Announcing the decision, LDF convenor Vaikom Viswam said, "It is clear that Babu had sought bribe from bar owners. So, he should resign and face investigation. A quick verification should also be done against him... Babu should resign, a case should be registered against him and probe ordered."

The investigation process against Mr Babu should be similar to the one launched against Kerala Congress (M) or KC-M leader KM Mani, former finance minister who was forced to resign early this month after Kerala High Court made stinging remarks against him in the bar bribery case, he said.

Kerala Bar Hotel Owners Association Working President Biju Ramesh, on whose corruption complaint a vigilance probe was held against Mr Mani, had alleged that Rs 10 crore was paid to Babu for renewal of bar hotel licenses.

Accusing the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government of rendering "dual justice", Mr Viswam said that the KC-M, a constituent of the ruling front also felt that justice was denied to its chief.

Despite specific allegation against Mr Babu, a proper probe as per the Vigilance manual was not held, he alleged adding this was only to protect the Congress Minister.

The LDF also criticised those close to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy for allegedly speaking out against the recent high court verdict in the bar case.

He also said the LDF would lead in Kerala the nation-wide protest, announced by the Left parties from December 1 to 6 against price rise.
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