The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has alleged that the removal of IAS officer Divya S Iyer as the Managing Director of the Vizhinjam International Seaport was orchestrated to benefit the Adani Group. According to CPI(M) leader and Kannur district secretary K K Ragesh, Iyer was transferred soon after the change of government in Kerala and replaced by an officer with no prior experience in port administration.
Allegations of Political Interference
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Ragesh claimed that the transfer was not based on administrative grounds but was politically motivated. He stated, "The removal of Divya S Iyer as Vizhinjam MD was a deliberate move to favour the Adani Group, which operates the port under a public-private partnership." Ragesh further alleged that the new appointee lacks the expertise required to handle the complex operations of a major port.
Background of the Controversy
The Vizhinjam International Seaport, located near Thiruvananthapuram, is a flagship project of the Kerala government, developed in partnership with the Adani Group. The port is expected to become a major transshipment hub in South Asia. Divya S Iyer, a 2010-batch IAS officer, had been serving as the Managing Director since 2021 and was widely credited with steering the project through critical phases.
Her transfer in July 2026, shortly after the new government took office, raised eyebrows among opposition parties. The CPI(M) has accused the ruling front of succumbing to corporate pressure, a charge the government has denied.
Government Response
Kerala's opposition leader V D Satheesan dismissed the allegations as baseless. He argued that transfers of IAS officers are routine and based on administrative requirements. "The government has full confidence in the new MD, who is a competent officer. There is no question of favouring any private entity," Satheesan said in a statement.
Impact on Port Operations
The Vizhinjam port project, with an estimated investment of over Rs 7,500 crore, is nearing completion of its first phase. The change in leadership has sparked concerns about potential delays. However, the Adani Group has not commented on the development. Analysts suggest that the controversy could impact investor confidence if political interference persists.
As the political slugfest continues, the CPI(M) has announced plans to raise the issue in the upcoming assembly session. The party also demanded a detailed explanation from the government regarding the rationale behind the transfer.
