Kerala High Court Raps State for Blocking CBI Prosecution in Cashew Import Case

The bench signalled it may formally note that the government is protecting the corrupt after a third refusal to grant sanction.

Overview

Justice A. Badharudeen asked why the government was protecting the accused and warned that such an observation could be recorded in the order.
The CBI seeks to prosecute former KSCDC chairman R. Chandrasekharan and former managing director P. A. Ratheesh in a long-running imports probe.
Investigators report irregularities in 2006–2015 raw cashew purchases worth roughly ₹500–₹600 crore, citing opaque tenders, above-market prices, and High Sea Sales transfers.
In its latest denial, the State argued the CBI offered no new evidence and failed to show illegal benefit, misuse of office, or criminal intent by the officials.
A contempt petition by Kadamkampally Manoj brought the issue back to court, which previously set aside an earlier refusal, with the case now posted for hearing next week.