LDF mum on ex-minister's involvement in 'exploitation' case

The case of former Kerala transport minister Jose Thettayil, accused by a woman of sexual exploitation, was not discussed at the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) meeting here Tuesday, a top LDF leader said.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, LDF convenor Vaikom Viswan denied any such discussion was held.

"Let the ongoing probe go on and let more details come out. The image of the LDF is not going to be sullied by this case," he said.

Viswan declined to answer a volley of questions on why the matter was not taken up.

Ahead of the LDF meet, Thettayil's party Janata Dal-Secular met and decided to extend all moral and political support to the beleaguered leader and maintained that he need not resign.

There was no reaction from Thettayil for the third day in succession.

The Aluva police Sunday registered a case against Thettayil, 62, and his son Adarsh after the woman alleged that the two "exploited" her.

The 30-year-old woman had handed over a 15-page complaint and a CD to police, claiming that the father-son duo "used" her. The time when the alleged exploitation took place was not revealed by police.

The woman alleged that the former minister reneged on a promise that his son would marry her.

Meanwhile, police set up a seven-member team for a detailed probe.

Many TV channels had on Sunday and Monday aired the visuals of the former minister and the lady lying on a bed.

State Congress president Ramesh Chennithala said the incident was most unfortunate and the party will speak on the issue at the appropriate time as a probe is currently on.