CPI(M) leader M.V. Jayarajan accuses UDF administration of targeting KIIFB projects to block regional growth

Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader M.V. Jayarajan has claimed that the Congress-led UDF administration in Keralam is using a Vigilance probe into land purchases for Kerala Infrastructure Investment Board initiatives to stall regional growth, particularly in Kannur.

Probe Focus

Speaking to reporters in Kannur on Sunday, Mr. Jayarajan stated that an order issued on October 30, 2026, unfairly focuses on land acquisition in Kannur even though identical methods were used in Palakkad under the same central legislation. The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has been ordered to examine the procedures used for buying 4,896 acres in Kannur costing about ₹12,240 crore, alongside 470 acres in Palakkad, bringing the total to 5,366 acres worth an estimated ₹12,710 crore. He questioned why a special team was formed solely for Kannur.

Funding Impact

Mr. Jayarajan warned that the inquiry threatens projects worth nearly ₹60,000 crore that received administrative approval, tenders, or active construction through KIIFB. He noted that projects exceeding ₹40,000 crore are already finished, covering roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and government offices. He argued that the probe is politically driven to weaken KIIFB because state finances are limited after paying salaries and pensions, and he challenged Congress leaders who received compensation to clarify their stance.

Context

Kerala Infrastructure Investment Board functions as a special financial vehicle for state infrastructure when direct treasury funds fall short. Major land purchases for public works often involve complex legal valuations and compensation disputes that regularly draw political scrutiny.