Kerala

A Jacob Thomasian dilemma: To quit, or not to quit

Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) chief Jacob Thomas, who offered to quit the other day, may revisit the decision.

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) chief Jacob Thomas, who offered to quit the other day, may revisit the decision. With the government asking him to continue, Jacob Thomas on Thursday made it clear that he has internally informed the government about the issues and now it’s for the government to take a call.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who cancelled all official functions on Thursday due to minor ailments, is yet to break his silence on Thomas’ request. On Wednesday the Cabinet had entrusted the CM to take a call in this regard.

Giving indications that he may continue as VACB director, Jacob Thomas said allegations against him don’t deserve answers. “We should know who’s raising these allegations. If the media does not push me back, I would go forward strongly,” he said. Thomas added that even in his absence the Vigilance system would function efficiently.

Thomas is of the view that he has taken a firm stand and there is no need to relent. However, Jacob Thomas continued to discharge his official duties as Vigilance Director on Thursday too. He visited two places for inspection and evidence collection.  Jacob Thomas said the department has been acting tough against corruption.
“When complaints come before us, we go for a probe. Attempts are on to strengthen the VACB,” he said.

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