The Kerala High Court has directed the State government to decide within two months on an application for prior permission under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, to probe corruption allegations against P.P. Divya, former president of Kannur district panchayat.
The order was issued while disposing of a petition filed by Kerala Students Union (KSU) vice president Muhammad Shammas, who alleged that the Vigilance probe was being sabotaged and sought a more effective investigation.
Earlier, the court had asked the Vigilance to clarify the steps taken on the complaint.
The Vigilance informed that it had sought government approval under Section 17(A) to proceed further. However, the government had not responded to the request.
Taking noted of the delay, the court directed the government to issue its decision within two months.
It further observed that the petitioner may approach the court again, if necessary, after the government clarifies its stand.
Published – September 26, 2025 02:41 pm IST
