KC (M), IUML demand Independent probe in land deal

Kochi, Sep 25 (UNI) Kerala Congress (M) and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), both constituents of the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Kerala Assembly, today demanded an Independent inquiry into the controversial Merchiston land deal at Ponmudi in Thiruvananthapuram district.

Speaking to newspersons here, KC (M) leader K M Mani alleged that State Forest Minister Benoy Viswom had connived with private parties in the illegal sale of Ecologically Fragile Land (EFL).

'' The Government's order yesterday for a vigilance probe into the deal was an eyewash to protect the erring minister and we demand either a judicial or CBI probe into the matter,'' he said.

Echoing the sentiments of Mr Mani, IUML leader P K Kunjalikutty said the Minister should resign owing moral reponsiblity for the murky deal and face a judicial or CBI inquiry.

In a separate press conference, Mr Kunjalikutty alleged that the vigilance probe could not be considered as an Independent inquiry and the truth may be concealed.

He also alleged that the Minister was a party in misusing the forest Government land.

UNI