Microfinance fraud case: HC dismisses plea to change probe officer

The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by the State government seeking to change the police officer probing the microfinance fraud case registered against SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan.

The government sought the replacement of S. Sasidharan, Superintendent of Police, Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, and subsequently posted as Additional Director of the Kerala Police Academy (KEPA), with Karthick K., Deputy Inspector General, VACB, to lead the Special Investigation Team to continue the probe in the case.

The court observed that Mr Sasidharan has been investigating the case since 2024. He submitted a report regarding the present status of the probe. The report shows that he has submitted factual reports in various cases being investigated by the SIT under his leadership before the VACB Director. He submitted that the probe was now almost in its final stage and that he would be able to complete the probe within three months.

The court felt that his continuation as probe officer is required to complete the probe in a time- bound manner. The government must issue orders entrusting the probe to Mr. Sasidharan, while the SIT for the purpose would continue and the probe must be completed within three months, it said.