Kochi, July 30: The Kerala High Court has sharply criticized the state government for retaining a senior bureaucrat facing trial in an alleged ₹600 crore cashew development scam in key government positions. The court raised concerns about how an accused official in a major corruption case could be entrusted with significant responsibilities in important government institutions.
Hearing a petition filed by social activist K.M. Shahjahan, a bench led by Justice A. Badar directed the government to submit its response within four weeks. The bench expressed serious concerns over Dr. K.A. Ratish, the main accused in the CBI case, continuing to serve as Secretary of the Kerala Khadi Board, Managing Director of Kerala State Rudronics, and Chief Executive Officer of the Kerala Khadi Workers Welfare Fund Board.
The court remarked, “Has the government appointed such a major accused of corruption as the head of three important institutions?” It also noted the potential for corruption in these positions.
The court emphasized that the allegations against Ratish are serious and sought clarification on how such appointments could be deemed appropriate while a criminal case is pending.
The petition highlighted that despite the government receiving approval to prosecute Ratish in the CBI case, he remains in his positions. This case is linked to alleged irregularities in cashew imports during his tenure as Managing Director of the Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation.
It was also alleged that he worked as Managing Director in public sector companies for over 11 years without the necessary vigilance clearance, violating the Companies Act regulations.
These comments from the High Court come at a time when questions are being raised again about the government’s decision to retain Ratish in significant public sector roles despite ongoing corruption allegations and repeated judicial interventions.
The CBI case is reportedly connected to the alleged ₹600 crore cashew import scam, with Ratish as the main accused. Despite facing other corruption allegations during his tenure in government companies, the government has continued to assign him senior administrative responsibilities.
Recent events have intensified pressure on the government to clarify whether an official facing trial in one of Kerala’s largest corruption cases should be allowed to remain in sensitive positions related to public funds. Following the High Court’s expression of displeasure and demand for a detailed explanation, the government’s stance on Ratish’s appointments will now undergo close judicial scrutiny.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.