Kerala Lok Ayukta issues notices to CM Satheesan over chartered flight
The Lok Ayukta has sought a response from Chief Minister V D Satheesan regarding allegations of corruption involving a sponsored flight.
The Kerala Lok Ayukta has issued notices to Chief Minister V D Satheesan and the Chief Secretary following a complaint by activist K M Shajahan. The complaint concerns the Chief Minister's travel to Malappuram in a sponsored chartered flight during a flood, according to The New Indian Express.
Shajahan alleged that using a flight sponsored by an unidentified person constitutes corruption and nepotism. The Lok Ayukta has requested a response from the Chief Minister regarding these claims.
State Police Chief testified before the Lok Ayukta that the allegation is frivolous. The official stated that Chipson Aviation arranged the flight at the request of the government.
Chipson Aviation had provided helicopter services for the state police until its contract expired in mid-September. The flight occurred during a period when the firm had reportedly submitted a new proposal to extend its contract.
The Chief Minister has not disclosed the identity of the flight's sponsor but stated the travel incurred no expense for the government. Satheesan also denied that the new proposal from Chipson Aviation is under consideration.