VS asks Chandy to step down

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan has sought Chief Minister Oommen Chandy’s resignation in the wake of the Thrissur Vigilance Court’s observation that he was in the know of the palmolein import deal. In a statement, VS said the vigilance court’s observation was a major blow for Chandy and a repetition of what the former Thiruvananthapuram Vigilance Court’s finding on the subject. The trial in the case can continue without any hitch only if Chandy steps down. Otherwise, all attempts will be made to subvert the case through misuse of power, he said. VS said he would go in appeal against the Vigilance Court’s decision to exonerate former Chief Secretary Padmakumar and former Additional Chief Secretary Zacharia Mathew.