Solar scam: Saritha claims receiving threats not to talk against Kerala CM

Coimbatore: Solar scam accused Saritha Nair alleged on Wednesday that she was receiving calls threatening her not to speak against Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, against whom she had levelled allegations in connection with the scam.

Saritha, brought here to appear before a city court in connection with a cheating case against her, told reporters she was getting calls from Congress leaders, industrialists and others after she submitted evidence and documents in digital format to the Justice C Sivarajan Commission, probing the scam, on February 9.

"I have not sought police protection despite receiving threat calls," she said, adding that she has 27 cases against her in Kerala and two here.

Deposing before the commission, Saritha had alleged that she had paid bribes totalling Rs 1.9 crore to a close aide of Chandy.

Refuting allegations that she was being instigated by leaders of Left parties, Saritha claimed the solar issue would have a negative impact on Congress in the coming Assembly elections in Kerala.

The court here adjourned the hearing of the case against Saritha to March 2.

The scam pertains to alleged duping of several persons to the tune of crores of rupees by Saritha and her accomplice Biju Radhakrishnan by offering solar panel solutions.