THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the transfer of DGP Jacob Thomas kicking up a row, Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan has come out against the government.
Accusing the government of succumbing to the pressure put on by the flat lobbies, Achuthanandan alleged that Ministers Ramesh Chennithala and Manjalamkuzhi Ali were behind the transfer.
The Opposition Leader said the government was dancing to the tune of builders. A majority of flat complexes and high-rises being constructed in the state are not following the fire and safety norms, he said.
“The directives issued by Jacob Thomas as Fire and Rescue Services director were against the interests of these flat owners. Many high-rises are being constructed without adhering to the norms meant for rescuing inmates during fire and other calamities. Jacob Thomas was removed from the post as he took a stand against such builders,” he said in a statement here.
Alleging major corruption behind the transfer, Achuthanandan said crores of rupees collected by the flat owners’ association were used to facilitate the transfer. “Ministers Ramesh Chennithala and Manjalamkuzhi Ali are behind this transfer,” Achuthanandan stated, adding that the government has compromised the life of thousands of people through this transfer.