Probe panel gives Sasikala access to papers

Sasikala was issued summons to depose before the commission on December 21. She was represented by her counsel Raja Senthoor Pandian who filed two petitions on January 5 and January 13, requesting details of the testimonies made against his client and to cross-examine those who have deposed against her, invoking the provisions of the Commissions of Inquiry Act of 1952. 

The petition also requested 15 days time to respond to the testimonies and evidence against Sasikala. The Commission responded to these petitions positively, granting Sasikala’s counsel the right to cross- examine all but three individuals who have deposed thus far. 

As Dr Sivakumar, Dr Balaji and Poongundran have not provided complete testimonies; Sasikala’s counsel will only be able to cross-examine them once their complete testimonies have been received. The counsel has also been granted permission to cross-examine those who are scheduled to depose before the commission in the future. 

The testimonies of 22 individuals who have deposed have been sent to Sasikala at the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru, where she is lodged after her conviction in the disproportionate assets case. 

Earlier in the day, K Venkatraman, who served as Secretary I during the tenure of the former Chief Minister, deposed before the commission at Kalas Mahal. The commission has now been adjourned to February 12.