The case involves alleged illegal possession of over 50 cents of government land, with officials claiming a 1,000-sq-ft building was concealed during registration and a resort wall encroaches public land
Published Jul 29, 2025 | 8:03 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 29, 2025 | 8:03 PM
Mathew Kuzhalnadan.
Synopsis: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan over alleged financial irregularities involving a resort and land deal in Chinnakanal, Idukki.The case, registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), stems from earlier vigilance findings. ED is likely to summon Kuzhalnadan for questioning in the coming days
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan in connection with alleged financial irregularities linked to a resort and land purchase in Chinnakanal, near Munnar, in Idukki district.
The case has been booked under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), and sources indicate that the agency may soon summon the legislator for questioning.
Responding to the development, Kuzhalnadan told reporters that he had not yet received any official notice from the ED but welcomed a detailed inquiry. “Let them conduct a thorough investigation,” he said, adding that he would fully cooperate with the probe.
The ED action follows a preliminary investigation by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) in Idukki, which led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR). The FIR named 21 accused, including Kuzhalnadan, who was listed as the 16th accused. Others named include local panchayat members, revenue officials, and intermediaries.
The case centres around the alleged illegal possession of more than 50 cents of poramboke (government) land. Officials claim that during the property’s registration, a 1,000-square-foot building constructed on the disputed land was not disclosed. The resort’s protective wall also allegedly encroaches upon government land.
Authorities say the property falls under the micha bhoomi (surplus land) category, and the land dispute dates back to 2008.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
