Thiruvananthapuram: With just days left for local body elections in Kerala, a fresh wave of political controversy has erupted after the Enforcement Directorate issued notices linked to the Masala Bond case. The move has triggered sharp reactions from political parties and raised questions about timing and intent.
According to information from recent reports, the notices are connected to the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board’s Masala Bond transactions. The ruling Left Democratic Front and leaders from the Communist Party of India Marxist argue that the action is politically motivated and timed to influence voters ahead of the polls. Party leaders have alleged that the central government is using investigative agencies to weaken the state administration during the election period.
Opposition parties have responded differently. Congress leaders questioned why the notice was not publicly acknowledged when it was first sent and demanded clarity on whether there has been any progress in the investigation. Bharatiya Janata Party leaders however said that the law should take its course and added that the ruling party should face the investigation instead of blaming outside forces.
A recent statement from V D Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition, expressed concern that the ongoing investigation lacks transparency. He argued that if a notice has been sent to individuals close to the leadership, it should not be concealed during an election season. Senior Congress leader K C Venugopal also questioned why some enforcement communications are made public while others are not.
Meanwhile, another debate is unfolding over the Special Intensive Revision of the electoral roll. The Kerala government approached the Supreme Court seeking a postponement of the revision process until after the election. The state argued that carrying out both processes simultaneously places pressure on the system and may affect accuracy. The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Election Commission on the matter and a decision is expected soon.
Political observers say the current situation has added uncertainty to an already heated election environment. With the ruling party defending itself against allegations and the opposition sharpening its campaign narrative, the issue is expected to become a key talking point in the coming days.
Despite the growing noise, the Enforcement Directorate has not publicly released detailed findings or updates on the next steps. No charges have been officially filed so far and there is no information on whether questioning or further action will follow the notices.
As Kerala heads closer to the polls, both legal developments and public reactions will likely play a role in shaping the political mood. The coming days are expected to bring further clarity on both the case and the election atmosphere.