» Kerala’s vigilance chief Jacob Thomas, known to be an anti-corruption crusader, has not shied away from going after powerful people even if it meant taking on the political heavyweights.
» Thomas, who turned persona non-grata to the previous Oommen Chandy government, was shunted from one post to another during the UDF rule after he initiated a no-nonsense probe against former ministers K.M. Mani and K. Babu in the bar bribery case.
» The then CM Oommen Chandy had even gone to the extent of saying that many decisions taken by the officer were anti-people.
» Thomas on his part sought the chief secretary's permission to seek legal action against the CM. His petition was turned down.
» After taking over the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) department, Thomas went after prominent apartment builders for violating central government rules on fire safety.
Also Read | Jacob Thomas wants to be relieved as Kerala vigilance chief, writes to govt
» Not just the UDF, Thomas also reportedly stood for a vigilance probe against former industries minister EP Jayarajan, who drew flak over nepotism charges and finally quit.
» He had also sought details of financial transactions made by political leaders and their investments in private and cooperative banks.