जागृति Jagratha

two decades of governance — a clear split view

LDF 2016–2026 UDF 2006–2016

PINARAYI VIJAYAN GOVERNMENT

LDF · 2016–2026
2020

Gold smuggling case Swapna Suresh · arrest

Diplomatic baggage used to smuggle gold; links to CM’s office alleged. Principal secretary M. Sivasankar grilled by ED.

NIA & ED investigation ongoing
2020–21

LIFE Mission project UAE red flags

Allegations of kickbacks & dubious foreign funding in housing scheme. Unitac builder & gold case links resurfaces.

CBI enquiry after high court observation
1990s/2012

SNC-Lavalin electricity contract

Pinarayi Vijayan was chargesheeted (later discharged) in Canadian firm kickback case. Congress continuously brings up 'corruption tag'.

CBI court discharged him in 2017, but political weapon
2022

Karuvannur bank scam

Alleged embezzlement in co‑operative bank with links to local LDF leaders. ₹100+ cr fraud under EOW lens.

multiple arrests, political backlash
controversies that shaped the 2021 & 2026 narrative

UDF GOVERNMENT

2006 – 2016
2009–2011

Ice cream parlour corruption K.M. Mani

Alleged taking of bribes disguised via ice cream parlours; former minister K.M. Mani was a key accused (died during trial).

Vigilance case, later abated due to death
2015

Solar scam Sarat-Sreelakam

Fake solar equipment supply; connections to CM Oommen Chandy's office. Sarada & Biju Radhakrishnan named.

High court monitor, no final conviction yet
2011–2016

Bar bribery / lottery scam

Allegations of taking bribes from bar owners to renew licenses. Excise minister K. Babu among accused; vigilance enquiry.

recorded conversations controversy
2006–2011

Pathanamthitta sex scandal

Alleged sexual abuse of women in a shelter home; political links to UDF ministers. Case involved Congress & IUML leaders.

some accused acquitted, still a political stain
pre‑Pinarayi decade: UDF in power 2006‑2016
elections 2026 jagratha – informed choice