According to reports, MLA and UDF's candidate from the Azhikode constituency KM Shaji has amassed assets more than his source of income. Reportedly, the preliminary Vigilance report states that Shaji has assets and savings amounting to 166 percent higher than his known source of income. The highest increase in assets was marked during the period between 2011-2020. Shaji's income was Rs 83,57,452 during this period while his total assets mark Rs 2,03,80,557.
Earlier, activist MR Hareesh had informed the court that KM Shaji has amassed disproportionate assets. He approached the court when probe officials didn't file a case against Shaji even after having enough evidence on illegal assets. However, following Hareesh's petition, the Vigilance has submitted a report in the court confirming that initial evidence suggests that Shaji gathered illegal assets.
MR Hareesh had filed a petition citing that there is a wide disparity in the details of assets submitted by Shaji in his poll affidavit over the total expense in the construction of his luxurious house. Based on the plea, the department has also found that Shaji's house is worth Rs 1.62 crore.
Meanwhile, on March 20, the presiding officer has accepted KM Shaji's nomination paper by rejecting the complaint filed by LDF candidate KV Sumesh. The complaint pointed out the High Court verdict which disqualified KM Shaji for six years. Earlier, the Supreme Court had stayed the High Court order which disqualified Shaji. He was facing a probe in connection with the allegation that he had received Rs 25 lakh as a bribe for allotting Plus Two for a school in the Azhikode constituency.
