Kerala HC denies relief in CMRL-Exalogic case

A Division Bench of the Kerala High Court comprising Justices K Natarajan and Johnson John has dismissed appeals filed by former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter Veena Thaikkandiyil, son-in-law Mohammed Riyas, and others against the registration of an FIR in the CMRL-Exalogic case. The single-judge order had directed the FIR based on allegations of irregularities in a procurement contract between the Cochin Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) and Exalogic Technologies.

The petitioners challenged procedural aspects of the FIR registration and alleged political motivation. However, the High Court upheld the necessity of investigation into potential financial irregularities and misuse of official position. The Bench ruled that public figures cannot be immunized from investigation merely due to political stature.

The decision reaffirms the principle that allegations against public servants must be investigated impartially. Legal practitioners should note that courts are increasingly reluctant to interfere with FIRs under Section 154 IPC (173 BNSS) when public interest and governance accountability are at stake.