CPM leader E.P. JayarajanThiruvananthapuram: CPM leader E.P. Jayarajan, who quit as Kerala industries minister, on Friday said his works during the last four-and-a-half months were aimed at the growth and progress of the state's industrial sector.
In a press release issued after resignation, Jayarajan said certain forces and mafias that had a monopoly over the state's industries were disturbed by his acts.
"The decisions to remove and transfer corrupt officials on various top posts in the industries department had disturbed such people very much. The controversy (over alleged nepotism) came up in such a circumstance," the minister said.
Political rivals and corrupt elements attacked the CPM and LDF government using the controversy, he said. He said he chose to resign not to tarnish the image of the government and his party, and to uphold his principles and values.
The former minister thanked all for the support he received as a minister.
Jayarajan resigned on Friday following allegation that he appointed close relatives to plum posts at various PSUs. The Vigilance and anti-corrupion bureau has launched a preliminary probe against him.
