Kerala MLA Alleges Scam Call Offering Ministerial Post for Rs 3 Crore

According to the MLA, the call was received on July 6. The caller, speaking in Hindi, claimed that a Cabinet reshuffle in Kerala was imminent and that several ministers would be replaced. He allegedly told Vidya Balakrishnan that she had a chance of becoming a minister and that the appointment could be "arranged" if she paid Rs 3 crore.

The caller also reportedly referred to another MP from Kozhikode district to lend credibility to the claim.

Growing suspicious, Vidya Balakrishnan contacted the MP mentioned by the caller. The MP reportedly told her that someone claiming to be from the AICC headquarters had earlier contacted him seeking the phone numbers of two MLAs, but denied having any knowledge of the alleged offer.

Realising it was likely an attempt at fraud, the MLA filed a complaint with the Kozhikode Cyber Cell on July 11.

Police have launched an investigation. Officials said tracing the origin of the call is challenging as it was made through WhatsApp, though efforts are underway to identify those behind it.

Vidya Balakrishnan said a thorough investigation is needed to identify the accused and bring them before the law.

She also claimed that several other MLAs had received similar calls and said the complaint was filed with the knowledge of the party leadership.