Death of ADM: Who is behind Prashanth? A benami deal suspected connecting CPM leaders

Thiruvananthapuram: As the debate over the death of ADM Naveen Babu intensifies, the allegation that TV Prashanth, who raised corruption allegations against Babu, is a benami for certain CPM leaders puts the party on the backfoot. This comes at a juncture when the party is publicly expressing solidarity with ADM's family amid the controversy.

It is alleged that, while the party publicly supports the family of ADM—a stance reiterated by CPM state secretary MV Govindan on Thursday in Kannur—covert moves are being made to protect Prashanth so that the investigation does not uncover his benami connections.

Reports indicate that the fake complaint in Prashanth's name against ADM was prepared in Thiruvananthapuram at the behest of top state leaders of the party. This complaint was then brought to a ‘prominent leader’ in the Chief Minister’s Office by party representatives. This shows the vigilance of the party's top brass in safeguarding Prashanth in this matter.

In Kannur, officials from the Government Medical College, Pariyaram, have reported to the Director of Medical Education that they have no details regarding Prashanth’s business activities other than his role as a contract employee at the hospital. This suggests that a cover-up operation may be underway behind the scenes, even as the party publicly supports ADM's family.

On the other hand, Prashanth continues to assert that he lodged a complaint with the Chief Minister’s Public Grievance Redressal Cell, despite evidence came out later regarding this contradicted his claims. His insistence is interpreted as a form of recompense to the party for protecting him in this questionable deal.

Benami Deal Involving Prashanth

• A relative of Prashanth, who operates a petrol pump in Kasaragod, initiated the move to start a new pump in Chengalayi, using Prashanth to facilitate the process.
• The petrol pump owner in Kasaragod is reportedly facing a financial crisis and is not in a position to start a new pump. However, it is alleged that his connections with relatives of top CPM leaders have helped organize the necessary funds for the new petrol pump in Chengalayi.
• Moreover, it is alleged that relatives of CPM leaders in Kannur were involved in a land deal for 14 acres in a tourism area in Kannur. The financial source behind this deal is also under scrutiny. It is believed that the same individuals behind this land deal are the true financiers of the new petrol pump in Chengalayi.