Kochi: The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has found the fresh explanation given by former excise minister and Congress leader K. Babu in the disproportionate assets case not satisfactory. The preliminary assessment of the statement recorded on February 5, found there is no need for change in findings made so far in the case and that the case will hold on its own, sources said.
“The detailed analysis of the fresh data given by him will be completed in 10 days and we’ll file a report to the Vigilance Director. The chargesheet in the case will be submitted to the court in two months as planned,” the sources said. The former minister had recently approached the Home Secretary seeking to re-record his statement stating that he wanted to add some information that he could not reveal before the investigation officer earlier. He had requested to take into account the various allowances received in his capacity as minister and MLA. Also the gifts received during his daughter’s marriage should also be considered.
However, the Vigilance found no substance in his statement regarding savings which Mr Babu claimed he had received from his wife’s house. The case was registered in 2016. Realtor P.S. Baburam and businessman Mohanan were also arraigned as accused on suspicion that they were benamis of Mr Babu. However, in its recent report filed before the High Court, the VACB stated that there was no evidence against Mr Baburam.
