Minister rules out resignation over land deal

Kozhikode, Aug 22 (UNI) Kerala Public Works Minister T U Kuruvilla, who is in the dock following his alleged involvement in a ''benami'' land deal, today ruled out his resignation.

He told reporters here that the 50 acres of land in question at Rajkumari village in Idukki district was sold by his children to K G A Group of companies.

Denying any role in the deal, Mr Kuruvilla said his children were prepared to face any probe in the controversial issue.

However, K G A Group Chairman K G Abraham had alleged that the deal at Rs 6.75 crore was materialised at the instance of the minister.

He said his company had already issued a legal notice to Mr Kuruvilla after realising that the minister's children did not possess the title deeds of the land.

A complaint had already been lodged with Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan, Mr Abraham said.

Kerala Congress leader P P George and many other opposition leaders had urged Mr Achuthanandan to sack Mr Kuruvilla for his alleged role in the deal.

However, Mr Achuthanandan, who is in New Delhi to attend the CPI (M) Central Committee meeting, told reporters that he would take a decision on the issue after perusing the case.

UNI