Kerala minister in nepotism row quits

The four-month old LDF government headed by Pinarayi Vijayan suffered a major blow on Friday as industries minister and No. 2 in the state cabinet E.P. Jayarajan resigned from following allegations of nepotism.

Faced with a stern stand by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the secretariat meeting and stiff opposition from other members, the Kannur strongman had to offer his resignation, which was accepted.

Mr Jayarajan admitted lapses on his part in appointing Kannur MP P.K. Sreemathy’s son and his close relative P.K. Sudheer as managing director of Kerala State Industrial Enterprises Ltd.

Mr Jayarajan’s resignation was accepted by governor P. Sathasivam later in the evening. The chief minister will keep the portfolios of industries and sports which were held by Mr Jayarajan until a new minister has been appointed.

The CPM claimed that it indicated the government’s resolve to act tough against nepotism and corruption.

CPM state secretary K. Balakrishnan said Mr Jayarajan decided to quit to uphold the image of the government and the party.