LDF protests rock corp council

Kochi: Kochi corporation's statutory council meeting on Friday witnessed tense scenes as councillors of LDF staged a protest demanding resignation of Mayor V K Minimol over a vigilance inquiry into a corruption complaint.Soon after the meeting began around 3pm, opposition councillors gathered near the well of the council, raising placards and banners. A prominent black banner raised by the protesters read, ‘corrupt mayor should resign'. Amid the disruption, mayor proceeded to quickly read out routine resolutions including appreciation for officials, highlighting that corporation secured the top rank in state for plan fund utilization. The agenda was quickly passed amid protests. Speaking to reporters later, LDF parliamentary party secretary P J Yesudas said returning allegedly collected money does not negate the offence. He reiterated the demand for Minimol's resignation and alleged irregularities in awarding works related to Indira Canteen project. The controversy stems from an order issued last month by enquiry commissioner and special judge (vigilance), Muvattupuzha, directing a probe based on a complaint filed by B B Ajayan. The complaint alleged that the mayor, while serving as a councillor, collected money from locals for road restoration work. Though the amount was later returned and no case was initially registered, court observed that a public servant cannot personally collect money for public works, and repayment does not eliminate potential criminal liability. Responding to allegations, Minimol dismissed them as baseless and politically motivated. She accused LDF and CPM of attempting to defame her. She also stated that she had not received any court summons and questioned the bribery claim, pointing out that the money was received through a bank account and that all discussions were officially recorded. The mayor further said she would pursue legal action against those spreading false information.