Enforcement Directorate pastes summons outside Pinarayi Vijayan's residence in CMRL case

The Enforcement Directorate pasted a two-page summons outside the Thiruvananthapuram residence of Keralam Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday, October 17, 2026, directing him to appear for questioning on October 23 in the CMRL-linked money-laundering case.

The Summoning

An ED official from Kochi visited the residence near Bakery Junction and pasted the notice near the entrance after staff members refused to witness it. Officials returned with police personnel to carry out the action because Mr. Vijayan was not present at the time. Officials stated the step was taken to ensure he received the notice, while senior CPI(M) leader V Sivankutty criticized the move, stating the former Chief Minister was attending a party conference in Kannur and was not running away. Mr. Sivankutty noted that the matter is pending before the Supreme Court and argued that action should wait for the court's verdict.

Case Background

The case stems from an FIR filed by the State police under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, following an October 9 directive from the Kerala High Court to the Keralam Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. The Vigilance bureau registered two FIRs on October 12 against Mr. Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena, and his son-in-law and former Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas in connection with the CMRL payoff case. On Friday, Mr. Vijayan moved the Supreme Court to challenge the High Court order.

Context

The Enforcement Directorate investigates financial crimes and money laundering offences under Indian federal law. Summons notices are formal legal orders requiring a person to appear before investigators for questioning as part of an ongoing inquiry.