Congress activist and former Kumily Panchayat President Sheeba Suresh has moved the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail in connection with a large-scale fraud case dubbed the "Scooter Scam." The case, involving an estimated ₹400–500 crore, revolves around promises of discounted scooters, sewing machines, and laptops that were never delivered. On Monday (10th February), Justice P. V. Kunhikrishnan directed the Public Prosecutor to obtain instructions from the government and scheduled the next hearing for 18th February.

Background

The scam came to light after Ananthu Krishnan, the alleged mastermind, was arrested by police on 6th February. Krishnan reportedly collected funds from thousands of individuals under the guise of the National NGO Confederation, promising high-value items at half-price. Investigations reveal the scheme targeted vulnerable groups, with victims paying upfront for goods that never materialized.

Read Also:- Delhi High Court Grants Two-Day Custody Parole to MP Engineer Rashid with Strict Conditions

In her bail application, Sheeba Suresh claimed she was appointed as a coordinator to promote the scheme and received ₹4 lakhs for her services. She asserted she had no prior knowledge of Ananthu Krishnan’s fraudulent activities or his background.

“I ceased all association with the 3rd respondent [Ananthu Krishnan] immediately after media reports exposed the scam. The allegations against me are politically motivated and orchestrated by the CPIM’s Amaravathi local committee.”

Suresh further argued that her involvement was limited to canvassing and denied any role in financial transactions or decision-making. She expressed fears of “malicious arrest” due to the ongoing political rivalry between Congress and CPIM in the region.

Case Title: Sheeba Suresh v State of Kerala and Others

Case No: BA 1917/ 2025