Kochi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday questioned Veena Vijayan, daughter of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, for more than eight hours in connection with the ongoing money laundering investigation linked to financial transactions between Exalogic Solutions Pvt Ltd and Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL). After the lengthy interrogation at the ED’s Kochi office, Veena left the premises without making any public statement.
Veena appeared before the agency after being issued a fresh summons. She had earlier sought exemption from appearing on June 12, citing health reasons, but the ED insisted on her personal presence as part of the investigation.
The questioning focused on payments totaling approximately ₹2.78 crore that Exalogic Solutions allegedly received from CMRL between 2017 and 2020 for “IT and Marketing Consultancy” services. Investigators sought explanations and supporting documents regarding the services provided, as the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) has alleged that no corresponding consultancy or software services were rendered.
The ED is also examining a ₹50 lakh loan received by Exalogic from a company linked to the family of CMRL’s managing director. Investigators are probing whether funds originating from CMRL were routed through related entities and used for purposes unrelated to the stated business transactions.
According to reports, the agency questioned Veena based on digital evidence collected during earlier searches and documents included in the SFIO’s extensive prosecution complaint. The ED has also recorded statements from several CMRL officials and directors as part of its effort to verify financial records and establish the flow of funds.
The broader investigation revolves around allegations of a ₹182-crore fake expenditure network uncovered by the SFIO. The ED is examining whether the transactions constitute proceeds of crime under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). As part of the probe, the agency has already frozen ₹18.36 crore spread across hundreds of bank accounts linked to the case.
Officials are expected to analyze Veena’s statements alongside evidence gathered from other individuals questioned in the case. Based on the findings, the agency will decide whether further questioning or additional investigative steps are required.
The CMRL-Exalogic case has emerged as one of Kerala’s most closely watched financial investigations, carrying significant political and legal implications as authorities continue to examine the nature of the transactions and the alleged irregularities involved.
