Devaswom Special Government Pleader K.B. Pradeep, appointed under the V.D. Satheesan-led UDF government, has resigned following criticism. The Chief Minister requested his removal due to concerns over his association with a company involved in the Sabarimala gold theft case. Pradeep’s appointment sparked a political uproar as he had represented Smart Creations, a company under investigation in the gold scam case.
The controversy deepened as a new position of Special Government Pleader was created specifically for Pradeep, raising questions about the government’s intentions. Previously, the Devaswom Department only had a Senior Government Pleader. Smart Creations, linked to the Sabarimala temple gold theft, faced scrutiny for its alleged involvement in the diversion of gold from the shrine.
Pradeep defended Smart Creations in the media, denying any wrongdoing and highlighting the company’s technical limitations. Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan’s support of the appointment further fueled the controversy. Criticism arose over his statement suggesting the usefulness of someone familiar with the accused’s weaknesses in a legal role.
Former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the new administration, citing Pradeep’s appointment as indicative of larger issues. This resignation marks the second appointment-related controversy for the UDF government, following a previous resignation over nepotism allegations.
