Published Sep 20, 2026 | 8:30 AM ⚊ Updated Sep 20, 2026 | 8:30 AM
Minister KM Shaji said he was using his friend's vehicle with the government's permission.
Keralam’s Local Self-Government KM Shaji has found himself at the centre of controversy over his ride.
He chose a friend’s Range Rover to replace his government-allotted car and fixed the official registration number plate on the private vehicle.
Social media was the first to take note of the minister’s luxury ride, and the photograph of the Range Rover circulated widely, inviting comments both in support of the minister and against him.
The Opposition LDF, which keeps its eyes wide open so as not to miss an opportunity to hit out at the VD Satheesan government, joined the anti-Range Rover clamour.
The minister was forced to offer an explanation: “The vehicle belongs to my friend. Anyone can verify the ownership. I will not claim even a rupee from the government for travelling in it,” Shaji said.
He also said the official registration number was fixed to the vehicle with the government’s permission.
Shaji maintained that there was nothing to conceal about the owner and said his credentials could be verified.
The explanation, however, drew sharp criticism from former minister and CPI(M) leader KT Jaleel.
In a Facebook post, Jaleel questioned whether accepting a luxury vehicle from a friend aligned with a minister’s oath to discharge duties without favour or prejudice.
Jaleel urged Chief Minister Satheesan and the Tourism Minister to intervene and provide Shaji with a newer government vehicle, such as an Innova Crysta, instead of letting him depend on a privately owned SUV.
The Range Rover is reportedly owned by Yakoob of Thillankeri in Kannur, who is also associated with the IUML-linked Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC).
The episode reminded many of a Mini Cooper ride by former CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan.
Kodiyeri rode the Mini during the CPI(M)’s Jana Jagratha Yatra in October 2017. The IUML and BJP alleged that the convertible belonged to Karat Faisal, an accused in an alleged gold smuggling case.
The proletarian party leader later clarified, saying he was unaware of the car’s ownership and that the event organisers had arranged the vehicle.
