Keralam minister KM Shaji has rejected allegations of impropriety regarding his use of a friend’s luxury Range Rover as an official vehicle, stating that his actions violated no government regulations.
Speaking at a press conference, Shaji addressed Opposition criticism over his vehicle use and a separate foreign trip sponsored by friends. He stated that the Range Rover belongs to a long-time friend whom he has known since serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Azhikode.
“This is a problem with the mindset of some people who think that anything is done only in expectation of a favour in return,” Shaji said.
To support his stance, Shaji cited a General Administration Department order issued on May 23, 2026, noting that similar guidelines were established in 2011, 2016, and 2021. He stated that government regulations do not require a minister’s official vehicle to be state-owned.
“The vehicle in which the minister travels is the minister’s vehicle,” Shaji said, adding that while ministers must not misuse official privileges for personal gain, using a privately owned vehicle for government functions is entirely permissible.
Responding to scrutiny regarding his personal lifestyle, Shaji acknowledged his preference for comfortable and expensive automobiles, attributing the public focus to his visible standards of living.
“Even when becoming a minister, there is an individual named KM Shaji. He has his personality, and he has a life of his own,” he said. He further alleged that a photograph circulating in media reports about the controversy had been generated using artificial intelligence.
Beyond the vehicle controversy, Shaji announced administrative actions within his department. He noted that approximately 10,000 departmental appointments will undergo review following allegations that individuals were appointed based on political party recommendations without taking examinations, while candidates who passed Public Service Commission examinations remained waiting for recruitment.
Shaji also confirmed that a Vigilance investigation has been ordered into an Ernakulam housing complex project. The facility was originally built at a cost of ₹18 crore but subsequently required an additional project worth ₹28 crore for repairs.
Sources
– [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/keralam-minister-defends-use-of-friend-s-range-rover-as-official-vehicle-says-no-rules-violated-101790491387915.html)
Source: Hindustan Times – India News
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Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
