The Kerala High Court has directed investigators to file a charge sheet within two weeks in the microfinance corruption case involving SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan and other accused persons.
Kochi: In an important interim order, Justice A. Badharudeen directed investigating officer S. Sasidharan, a superintendent of police, to complete the necessary steps and submit the charge sheet within two weeks. The court clarified that separate government sanction for prosecution is not required to file the charge sheet in the present circumstances.
The question of whether government sanction was necessary had delayed further proceedings in the case. The court's direction sets a specific deadline and seeks to prevent the investigation and legal process from being prolonged indefinitely.
M. S. Anil, a resident of Cherthala, approached the High Court alleging undue delay in the investigation and in taking further legal steps against the accused. He sought the removal of obstacles to filing the charge sheet and effective completion of the investigation. The investigation is currently proceeding under the High Court's supervision.
The case concerns allegations of financial irregularities in a microfinance scheme associated with the SNDP Yogam. The scheme was intended to provide financial assistance to economically disadvantaged people and those seeking to start self-employment ventures. Complaints concerning financial transactions and the use of scheme funds led to the investigation.
The direction to file a charge sheet does not mean the allegations have been proved or that the accused have been found guilty. The evidence and any criminal liability will be examined through subsequent court proceedings.
The court's two-week deadline is a significant development in the long-running case. Attention will now turn to whether investigators submit the charge sheet within the period specified by the High Court.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
