The Kerala High Court on Monday accepted apologies from the petitioner and a newspaper editor in a public interest litigation, but directed immediate removal of certain social media posts linked to the case. The court also sought a detailed response from the State on alleged irregularities in a major government procurement project.
Background of the Case
The matter arose in W.P. (PIL) No. 37 of 2026, filed by Shaji J. Kodankandath against the State of Kerala and others. During the hearing, affidavits tendering apology by the petitioner and the editor of Deepika daily were placed before the court.
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However, the State pointed out that the disputed publications were still accessible on Facebook and Instagram.
A Division Bench led by Chief Justice Soumen Sen & Justice Syam Kumar V. M. noted that although the posts were made prior to an earlier order dated March 26, 2026, their continued availability required immediate attention.
“The same shall be removed forthwith, and in any case, not later than 24 hours,” the bench directed, making the continuation of proceedings subject to this undertaking.
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The court also examined an affidavit filed by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. It highlighted serious deficiencies in a ₹168 crore tender involving procurement of equipment.
Among the issues flagged were:
- Changes in specifications leading to price escalation up to sixteen times
- Procurement costs rising to more than double the original estimate
- Equipment suffering damage within a short period
- Procedural lapses in the tender process
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The bench further observed that despite these findings, there was no material indicating action taken by the Revenue Department after receiving the vigilance report.
Taking note of the gaps, the court directed the Principal Secretary, Revenue Department, to file an affidavit within three weeks detailing the steps taken on the vigilance recommendations.
It also allowed the petitioner to respond thereafter and scheduled the matter for further hearing on May 21, 2026.
Case Title: Shaji J. Kodankandath vs State of Kerala & Others
Case Number: W.P. (PIL) No. 37 of 2026
